Trying to get Black Patina to take on Copper pipes

Sue,

I have created a leaded panel, with a frame around it made from copper plumbing pipes. This has worked well but failed on the last step because I can't get the patina to take on the copper pipes. I did try a test piece before I started and it seemed to take well - but I can't recreate this now. To be honest the patina hasn't taken well on the lead either.

Unfortunately I didn't see your advice on getting patina to take until after I'd hit this problem. I did clean the piece with soapy water before applying the black patina with a scrubbing pad. So my two questions are these;

1) Do you think the patina should take on copper piping or should I just give up and paint them?
2) Is it too late to follow your advice now? Can I clean and wax the piece now and try to apply the patina again? If so (I'm in the UK so am not familiar with the product names your mention) can I just buy any car wax?

I've attached a picture.

Thanks for your help!

Mary.

Answer

Hi Mary,

Black patina is meant to turn solder black. It is a chemical reaction between the tin in the solder and the chemicals that make up the black patina. It won't work on the copper pipes.

You could tin the copper pipes then use patina, but that would be difficult due to the mass (size) of the pipes and the need for at least a 150 watt soldering iron. Your best bet would be to paint them.

There is a black patina for lead. I have always found it to give a blotchy coverage. If you're going to paint the pipes, why not paint the lead also.