Oxidation Under the Foil

I have noticed oxidation under some of my foil. Because some of my pieces are clear, I can see underneath from one side or the other. At the time that I am burnishing it, it seems to be sealed. I have tried a flux cleaner that is just wiped off so you don't use water but that is recent and haven't noticed the results yet. Should I wax it more or use a different flux cleaner.

Answer

Hi,

It sounds like you're not burnishing well enough. Even though the foil looks like it's sealed, doesn't necessairly mean that it is. Use a small (2") wall paper roller, or one of the rollers made specifically for burnishing foil. Roll it firmly over all three sides of the foil.

If the glass is textured, use a wooden chop stick. Move it over the glass slowly and firmly to get the foil down into each groove.

Try this cleaning method rather then using a flux remover. I have nothing against flux removers, but I seldom get satisfactory results using them. This method gives excellent results every time.

I hope these recommendations will help you eliminate the oxidation problem.