Stop Fighting Copper Patination - Embrace It!

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Stop Fighting Copper Patination - Embrace It!

Wednesday, March 18th, 2009    Subscribe To Our Feed

Step aside  plain bronze copper tiles and accents – the newest trend to sweep decor design is the introduction of stunning, one-of-a-kind patinated copper pieces to the palette.

That’s right! Trendy homeowners can now stop fighting the fight against oxidation – that seemingly unavoidable process that takes your gleaming copper pots and pans from bronze beauties to dark brown or green duds.   Instead, homeowners are embracing daring new copper creations that have been generated from a process commonly known as applied patination – a special multi-step metalsmithing craft practiced by skilled artisans. Various chemicals are carefully applied to the copper, as well as some heat processes, resulting in some of the most amazing colors one can find. The effects of this patination process on metals can vary dramatically, resulting in each piece being a one-on-a kind. Carefully applied to the artisan’s original design, patination gives each pieces a truly unique new look. It takes hours, but these talented artisans can carefully guide the oxidaton process to result in curls and swirls, patterns and designs, all in stunning colors ranging from warm browns, reds, and golds to cool greens and blues.  Then, once their design has been perfected, they permanently seal it with resin – shutting off the continued oxidation process resulting in a pieces suitable for use in the home.

Since ocean colors are often the outcome of applied patination, many copper piece designs are inspired by the treasures of the sea. New copper tiles, in a multitude of large to small squares, are emerging with stunning green and blue starfish designs patinated onto a rich traditional copper tone background. You can also find blue, green, and even brown nautilus shells, sand dollars, and scallop shells. Mixed and matched together, these seascape tiles create a truly unique kitchen backsplash or bathroom tile pattern. Or, some designers opt for one large, stunning focal copper wall piece, building their seaside cottage look around that gem.

Applied patination is also finding its way into interesting new furniture designs. Copper has always been a  common choice for table tops – whether it is traditionally smoothed or hammered copper. But now, designers hoping to create unique looks are opting for patinated pieces. New copper tables with swirls of greens and blues are gaining in popularity. These works of art are painstakingly created over the course of several weeks to achieve just the right color tones, and once perfected – introduce character into any room. Cleaning of these pieces is quite easy - you should always avoid using a copper or brass cleaner as they can permanently harm the patinated finish. Often pieces have been waxed as part of the process to preserve their design and very little effort is needed to maintain the look. Now and then a fine steel wool will work to brighten it up. Remember, these pieces are works of art to be enjoyed for many, many years.

Next time you are in the mood for a little home décor pick-me-up be sure to search online for patinated copper pieces – truly unique, they add just the right amount of color and design to any room.