Expert: Sue Spire - 5/22/2009

Question
Hi Sue - On your website you mention Classique Antique Brass patina. Is that still available? If so, do you have a source? If not, do you know a way to achieve a brass look on zinc border came and solder lines? Thanks in advance!

Answer
Hi Claudia,

I just did a Google search for Classique Antique Brass Patina, and found several places that supposedly have it. Do a search and ask the places if they still have any in stock. If they do, buy as much as you can because apparently the company no longer makes it.

As for other ways to get a brass finish on solder, I don't know of any. The antique brass patina does not give an actual brass finish, it is a "soft" copper finish...not as bright and shiny as copper.

Getting patina of any color to work on zinc is not an easy task. Zinc and patina are similar to oil and water, they just don't go together. Many people paint their zinc. Actually, it looks very nice and does not detract from the panel in any way. Rustoleum paint works the best, since it is made for metal.