Friday 14 March 2014

Verdigris Patina Becoming A Popular Trend

By Jaclyn Hurley


When exposed to the elements for a length of time, various metals take on a beautiful blue and green verdigris patina, which has recently gained popularity in building designs, landscapes and home decorating projects. However, it takes a good bit of time for this process to occur naturally. There are methods to speed up the process, but some projects may benefit from using a faux finish to imitate the desired look.

Verdigris refers to the color and texture that often forms on the surface of metals such as copper, brass or bronze. Its greenish color has rust-colored spots or blue flecks throughout. The Statue of Liberty is probably the most well-known example of this patina. Many visitors to the statue are surprised that its vivid colors have occurred through a natural process and that it has not been painted.

Oxidation or other chemical processes are typically what causes this naturally occurring patina to form on metal surfaces. Exposing metal to seawater or air is the most common occurrence. How quickly the color develops depends on whether it is in an urban or industrial environment and what naturally occurring elements are found there.

This patina has varying shades of beautiful rust, blue and green colors, which have become popular with landscapers, building designers and interior decorators. Developing this finish by exposing metals to the elements takes time. However, landscapers and building designers can factor this process into their project planning. Interior decorators may not have this luxury, as they typically use elements not suitable for outdoor exposure. For these applications, other methods to speed up the process or mimic the desired look may be more appropriate.

As the trend of using metals in the home continues to grow, interior decorators are increasingly incorporating elements with a verdigris finish into their design plans. The bright colors offer a unique twist to the rustic flare many homeowners desire. For pieces and areas that would not tolerate exposure to the weather, an artificial process or faux finish may be used.

Creating a verdigris finish using an artificial process can be done in several fairly simple ways. The easiest process typically involves basic ingredients found in the home, such as white vinegar, salt and dish soap. This treatment would work well for small decorative items, such as picture frames, lamp bases or planters.

It may be best to use a faux finish to mimic this look on large areas or on any items that aren't made from metal. Kits that contain all of the supplies required can often be found in craft centers or home improvement stores. However, blue, green and metallic paints can also be used to achieve the desired effect. This treatment is perfect for kitchen cabinets, headboards and even accent walls.

The trend for using metals in home decorating continues to grow. Incorporating this finish into exterior or interior design projects is an easy way to add a bit of color that has a rustic flare. Deciding on which method to use would depend on the application and the size of the piece.




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