2. A verdigris patina develops over time on metals like
bronze, brass and copper when they are exposed to air
or water. These metals develop a layer of protection that
changes their color completely. An example of this is the
Statue of Liberty in the United States. Decorators and
homeowners alike are in love with this aged look and
today there are products on the market that can be used
to create it without having to wait for years.
3. Artists long ago made use of the vibrant green of
verdigris to make pigment for their paintings. Copper
plates were placed in a pot of hot vinegar and the green
crust that formed was scraped off for making of
pigment. However, this pigment was unstable and it fell
out of use when more stable pigments were developed.
4. In the past, the green color of verdigris was used as a
paint color by artists. The way they hastened oxidation
was by hanging copper objects in a pot of hot vinegar
that was sealed. Pigment was made out of the green
crust that formed. The use of this pigment continued
until more stable ones were developed.
5. Buying a ready made product takes away much of the
effort involved in speeding up the aging process. Using
one of the products available allows one to create a
variety of unique patinas, varying in color from brown to
blueish-green and vibrant green. This can be done in
efficiently in a short amount of time.
6. The color of the patina depends on the type of metal
and the length of time it has been exposed. Bronze often
develops a blue-black color while copper usually
produces a blue-green color. Various methods can be
used to hasten the development of these colors, such as
use of heat and vinegar.
7. Today there are many products that can speed up the
process of creating genuine patinas. These are available
at both local and online stores. They are easy to apply
and clear instructions are given on usage. The surface
has to be thoroughly cleaned before applying any of
these products as even grease from fingers can affect
the result.
8. Many different applicators can be used like brushes,
sponges or even cotton wool. One can experiment with
different methods of application too. Some individuals
prefer to use many thin coats to build up the effect
gradually and others apply a few thick layers.
9. As with any product using chemicals, care needs to be
exercised when using these products. However, as long
as instructions are followed carefully, there should be no
problem. A tip is to always pour product into a
disposable container for use so that one does not have
to dip an applicator into the bottle.
10. A verdigris patina is appreciated today for its uniqueness
and the way it contrasts beautifully with contemporary
materials. All the ways used to create such an effect in
the past are no longer necessary. Products are readily
available that can eliminate time, making the process an
effortless one.