How to Patina Metal With Vinegar and Salt

Patina can give metal a weathered, aged look, and using vinegar and salt is an easy, natural way to accelerate this process. Here’s how you can do it:

Materials Needed:

• White vinegar

• Table salt

• Spray bottle or brush

• Fine steel wool or sandpaper (optional, for surface prep)

• A plastic container or a non-reactive surface (glass, plastic, or wood)

• Protective gloves (optional)

• Metal object to patina (copper, brass, steel, or iron work best)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Clean the Metal

   • Use soap and water to remove dirt, oil, and grease.

   • For best results, lightly sand or scrub the surface with fine steel wool to expose fresh metal.

2. Prepare the Patina Solution

   • Fill a spray bottle or container with white vinegar.

   • Add a generous amount of salt (about 1 tablespoon per cup of vinegar).

   • Shake the bottle to dissolve the salt.

3. Apply the Solution

   • Spray or brush the vinegar-salt solution onto the metal surface.

   • Make sure the metal is fully coated.

   • Optionally, let the metal sit in a shallow tray with some of the solution pooled at the bottom.

4. Let It React

   • Place the metal in a well-ventilated area.

   • Allow it to dry naturally. Over time, oxidation will create a patina.

   • You can repeat the application to deepen the effect.

5. Enhance the Patina (Optional)

   • For a blue-green patina on copper or brass, place the damp metal in a sealed plastic bag with ammonia fumes (do not submerge it).

   • For rusted iron or steel, mist the surface occasionally and let it dry in cycles.

6. Seal the Patina (Optional but recommended)

   • Once the desired look is achieved, stop the reaction by rinsing with water and drying thoroughly.

   • To preserve the patina, apply a clear coat like lacquer, wax, or a light oil (e.g., linseed oil for a natural finish).

Tips:

• Experiment with different application methods (dabbing, dripping, or misting) for unique textures.

• More salt creates a rougher, crusty patina.

• The process can take a few hours to a few days depending on conditions.