The verdigris patina that is formed on certain metals when they are exposed to the elements has become part of a popular design trend used in buildings, landscapes and interior design. While the naturally occurring process that creates the bright blue and green colors may take time, there are methods to speed up the process on smaller items. However, a faux finish may work best for some projects.
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.
Building designers, landscapers and interior decorators are increasingly drawn to the bright blues, greens and rust colors found in this patina. Developing this finish naturally can take a significant amount of time, but builders and landscapers can usually account for this taking place sometime after their structure has been built. For interior decorators, most of the elements they use cannot be exposed to harsh outdoor weather. It would be best if they pursued other methods that either mimic the look or speed up the process.
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.
There are many variations on using an artificial process to create a verdigris finish. However, most involve simple household ingredients, such as dish soap, white vinegar and salt. This type of treatment is best for small items that would be used to decorate the home, such as planters, picture frames or lamp bases.
To achieve a verdigris finish on larger areas or on elements that are not made from metal, it may be best to apply a faux finish. Home improvement stores and craft centers often carry kits that contain everything needed to create a faux finish of this type, but it can easily be achieved using various shades of blue, green and metallic paints. A faux finish would be ideal for headboards, kitchen cabinets or even an accent wall.
Using various types of metals in home decorating is a growing design trend. Using bright verdigris colors in interior and exterior projects is a great way to add some punch to the popular rustic look. The best method for creating this finish would depend on how it is being used and the desired effect.
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.
Building designers, landscapers and interior decorators are increasingly drawn to the bright blues, greens and rust colors found in this patina. Developing this finish naturally can take a significant amount of time, but builders and landscapers can usually account for this taking place sometime after their structure has been built. For interior decorators, most of the elements they use cannot be exposed to harsh outdoor weather. It would be best if they pursued other methods that either mimic the look or speed up the process.
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.
There are many variations on using an artificial process to create a verdigris finish. However, most involve simple household ingredients, such as dish soap, white vinegar and salt. This type of treatment is best for small items that would be used to decorate the home, such as planters, picture frames or lamp bases.
To achieve a verdigris finish on larger areas or on elements that are not made from metal, it may be best to apply a faux finish. Home improvement stores and craft centers often carry kits that contain everything needed to create a faux finish of this type, but it can easily be achieved using various shades of blue, green and metallic paints. A faux finish would be ideal for headboards, kitchen cabinets or even an accent wall.
Using various types of metals in home decorating is a growing design trend. Using bright verdigris colors in interior and exterior projects is a great way to add some punch to the popular rustic look. The best method for creating this finish would depend on how it is being used and the desired effect.
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