Black Patina Turning Pewter Color

by Nina
(Alfred Ontario Canada)

I am having trouble with my black patina not staying black....it seems to turn a pewter color and loses that wonderful black color. I live in the country and wonder if it could be my water, since I am on a well! The last project I did was fine. I use mother's wax to shine.........
Any thoughts?
Thanks Nina

Answer

Hi Nina,

Yes, it could be your water. Well water often contains natural elements (like iron) that can cause problems with patina.

Here are two things you can try. People seem to have good luck with each one, so try them both to see which works best.

1. Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to the black patina (in a separate container).

2. Add 1/2 tsp salt to black patina (in a separate container).

In either case, apply the patina as usual. Blot it off so it doesn't stain the glass, then let it sit until absolutely dry before you polish it. Be gentle when you polish it. In my experience, I have found that black patina need to "set" before it becomes permanent. Too hard rubbing at first will remove some of the patina, causing it to look pewter instead of black. Maybe that's all you have to do before you try the vinegar or salt.

Let us know how it goes.