Upgrading Old Copper DIY's

We have done quite a few DIY’s in the past with copper piping - but over the years, trends have changed from heavily favouring rose gold tones to a shift towards gold or silver tones, leaving rose gold (aka copper) in the past. Here is a good trick on upgrading your old copper DIY’s to make them look a bit more eclectic and ornate look; creating a patina finish.

What is a Patina Finish?

Described by definition as “a green or brown film on the surface of bronze or similar metals, produced by oxidation over a long period.” I am sure you know the look of ‘old copper pipes’ turned into beautiful decor, a style that is used heavily in stores like Anthroplogie (see example below).

So how do we get this effect without waiting ages for it to happen naturally? It’s quite easy actually, we just need to force the copper to oxidize by creating an ammonia chamber. All you’re going to need is ammonia, table salt, copper piping, paper towels, wooden skewers and a Tupperware container you are okay with throwing away after.

First thing you are going to want to do to prepare the copper for oxidization is sand it down! Copper comes with a coating on top that helps protect your copper, but we need to get rid of that in order to create this effect.

Next, using your Tupperware, skewers and the paper towel, create a barrier for all your copper pieces to fit on lifted away from the bottom of the Tupperware. Next put the paper towel in the bottom and drench it in ammonia. Now place all your copper pieces inside and coat them with ammonia using a brush and proper PPE equipment on as ammonia shouldn’t be inhaled.