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Author Topic: antiquing a powder flask  (Read 4243 times)

mlbrant

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antiquing a powder flask
« on: August 07, 2014, 09:14:29 PM »
I have a repro copper flask and a repo brass flask. Can any of u guys more knowledgeable than I (which probably includes all of you) tell me how I could antique and age  these 2 flasks. A step by step would help!
                                                   ;D ;D
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Offline EricEwing

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #1 on: August 07, 2014, 09:58:43 PM »
For brass I've used water, leaving it outside for a few weeks, vinegar, vinegar fumes...but I believe you can use acid or ammonia also for a more dramatic effect.  Gunpowder residue and regular handling will dirty up brass quickly in my experience.

I've never aged copper on purpose so I cannot help you there but wouldn't be surprised if the same principles apply!
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Offline John Archer

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #2 on: August 07, 2014, 10:15:23 PM »
Ferric nitrate solution in a plastic spray bottle...heat the copper until the spray hisses when it hits it. you will get a dark brown color. Rub it back with 0000 steel wool til you get the effect you want.

John.
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Offline T*O*F

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #3 on: August 07, 2014, 10:24:27 PM »
I think anything with sulfur in it will darken both items.  I have heard of using yellow mustard.  Also you can make a paste of egg yolks and spread it on.  Results are dependent on the amount of time either is left on.  These are items you have handy.

Or you can buy commercial chemicals....instant gun blue, etc.  They darken because they contain selenium.  There are various sites on the internet where you can find how to turn various metals different colors.  Jewelers do this all the time.
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Offline Clark Badgett

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #4 on: August 08, 2014, 05:03:31 AM »
You could pee on it.  ;D
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Offline skillman

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #5 on: August 08, 2014, 05:25:03 AM »
I agree with Eric about the gunpowder and water. I've used this a number of times on both copper and brass.

Steve
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Steve Skillman

Offline davec2

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #6 on: August 08, 2014, 05:45:09 AM »
Do yourself a favor and buy some of this.....

http://www.historichouseparts.com/pdshop/shop/category.aspx?catid=115

Works on brass, copper, and steel.  This was Jim Kibler's recommendation to me and I have been using it faithfully (and with great success) ever since I asked him.  It goes a long way but buy the 32 ounce size.
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Offline skillman

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #7 on: August 08, 2014, 06:04:52 AM »
Whatever you use, make sure there isn't a protective clear coating on the flask. If there is, remove it first.

Steve
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Steve Skillman

ottawa

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #8 on: August 08, 2014, 02:02:08 PM »
and if you are going to heat it make sure there is no powder in it ( no offence meant )  
« Last Edit: August 12, 2014, 05:31:28 PM by Ky-Flinter »
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Offline JBJ

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Re: antiquing a powder flask
« Reply #9 on: August 08, 2014, 04:46:36 PM »
Be VERY careful with heat! The seams are soldered and could open and that thin copper will heat quickly.
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