Abby

2/17/11

Could someone recommend a good patina formula?  I need to treat a brass (Alloy 353) base 12” x 6” x .5” thick.  Need to match a brass sculpture- a dark brown with a hint of red.  

I only have 5 days to complete it and have tried a ½ tsp of Ferric Nitrate in 2 c. distilled water – applied to heated brass base- not much success.  Too light in color w/ little effect.

-Abby Krause

History Colorado

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Joseph Johnson 2/17/11

Abby,     I have done much work with patination.  I don't have an exact chemical formula to try, but I will offer to you the best solution to any patina needs/questions....call Ron or Debbie Young.  Ron Young and his wife Debbie are the masters.  They deal primarily in sculpture and have been doing patina for decades.  They have many products and samples available for all metals/finishes.  Debbie is a great person to talk to to trouble shoot as well.  They are good people and have some of the best products on the market,  as far as I am concerned.  I have done a lot of patina work over the years, with steel, iron, precious metals, etc....  They make all of there own formulas and send packets with their chemicals that give you step by step instructions. They do business out of California and have overnight delivery.  You can reach them at 1-800-728-5787, 8am-5pm PT, M-F. www.sculptnouveau.com/

Best wishes, Joe Johnson Lead Artist/Preparator/Mountmaker Phil Fraley Productions 614 Braddock Ave. Turtle Creek, PA 15145