Copper for your Prints!

Discussion in 'Finishing Techniques' started by erckgillis, Apr 17, 2014.

  1. erckgillis
    erckgillis Member
    As you know SW does not yet print into Copper...

    But wait they Do!

    Brass and Bronze are alloys of Copper and often are 80-90% Pure Copper.
    I have had some success in printing in raw or polished Brass/Bronze and using post production to bring out the rich red "Copper" colors in the finishes!

    Print as Normal, some testing here is required as well as a preference for raw or polished will vary by your design and print sizes.
    Also careful with fine lines or details as these may be lost using this technique...

    See pics below for variations in color, patina and pitting of metals.
    Use a solution of Sodium hydroxide (lye) or Drain Cleaner, try a starting solution diluted 25-50% and work up to full strength. Don't use gel or powders get the cheap liquid versions in bottles and regular strength.

    Submerge Printed item into solution, it will blacken quickly. Rinse in fresh water. Inspect, dry/buff out black (this is Tin/Zinc) and repeat until patina or colors are as desired. this is a surface treatment only. Removing any Tin or Zinc leave a Copper Patina! Copper may continue to oxidize or patina to green, brown or black. Use a good surface protection wax to maintain desired colors. http://www.amazon.com/Collinite-Metal-Wax-850-16/dp/B008KMGA GI/

    Also I have had some luck filling pits and defects with copper solders and other Cu based fillers. See your store or http://www.amazon.com/Copper-Solder-Bronze-Jewelry-Repair/dp /B000OVK3YI/

    Some results can be varied by using a raw or sanded surface and even the more expensive "polished" finishes at SW yield great results...

     

    Attached Files:

  2. JoyComplex
    JoyComplex Active Member
    pretty neat!