Learn how to give unfinished sheet metal the look of aged zinc using Amy Howard At Home® Zinc Antiquing Solution™. Use the Antiquing Solution to oxidize and age the metal, then follow with an application of Light Antique Wax to buff and seal. Annual maintenance applications of Light Wax are recommended to protect your piece. Take a plain metal desktop from standard to special, or add a unique top to your kitchen island. You can even create an aged zinc finish on metal candlesticks or containers. If your piece of metal has scratches or marks on it, that is OK! It will make your Zinc piece look old and worn. These little marks or scratches add character.
13 Steps
How to Use Amy Howard at Home Zinc Antiquing Solution
1. Clean Piece
Wipe down your piece with a degreaser and a damp rag to be sure it is clean and clear of any dust or dirt.
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2. Rinse Piece
Rinse piece with water to remove any residue. Let it dry.
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3. Shake Solution
Shake the bottle vigorously.
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4. Pour Solution
Pour the solution into a durable container.
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5. Protect Skin and Eyes
Put on gloves to protect your hands and safety glasses in case of splatters.
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6. Dip Rag
Dip the cotton rag into the solution. Do not over saturate your rag in the solution.
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7. Dab Metal
Use your rag to lightly dab the metal. Dab and dot your rag in an organic composition over the entire surface. Do not neglect the edges of your pieces. The piece should be thoroughly saturated in the Zinc Solution.
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8. Rub and Pull Zinc Solution
Zinc will begin to immediately separate on the metal. Use your cotton rag to rub in a circular motion. This pulls the zinc solution to assist the oxidation process.
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9. Dab with Rag
Randomly dab and dot with your cotton rag.
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10. Solution Changes Colors
Once the oxidation process has begun, the piece of metal with the solution on top will begin to change colors. The more Zinc Solution used, the darker the result. Continue to apply the Zinc Solution until desired color has been achieved.
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11. Let it Dry
Allow your piece to lie flat and dry for 30-45 minutes to dry. Zinc Solution will dry into a lighter, more chalky finish.
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12. Helpful Tip
If you're using this for a counter top, vanity or top of any piece of furniture, be sure and seal it with wax. But if you want a more chalky, blue green finish, do not seal it.
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13. Enjoy the Bragging Rights™
Take a moment, take a step back and enjoy your work of art.
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