The beautiful blues and greens of the verdigris patina found on various metals left out in the elements have become quite popular for use in building design, landscaping and home decorating. While the naturally occurring process may take some time, there are various ways to speed things up. However, some interior design projects may be better suited for a faux finish that mimics this patina.
Verdigris refers to the color and texture that often forms on the surface of metals such as copper, brass or bronze. Its greenish color has rust-colored spots or blue flecks throughout. The Statue of Liberty is probably the most well-known example of this patina. Many visitors to the statue are surprised that its vivid colors have occurred through a natural process and that it has not been painted.
Oxidation or other chemical processes are typically what causes this naturally occurring patina to form on metal surfaces. Exposing metal to seawater or air is the most common occurrence. How quickly the color develops depends on whether it is in an urban or industrial environment and what naturally occurring elements are found there.
The beautiful greens, blues and rust colors of this patina are quite popular with building designers, landscapers and interior decorators. While it may take some time to develop the patina by leaving metals exposed to the elements, building designers and landscapers typically account for this process in their planning. However, interior decorators often work with materials and furnishings that wouldn't hold up to outdoor elements for an extended period of time. Other methods that either speed up or mimic the process may be more suitable for these applications.
Incorporating elements that have a verdigris finish has become an increasing trend in interior design. It is a great way to infuse a bit of color while also adding the rustic charm that has become so popular with many homeowners. To add this finish to indoor elements that cannot be exposed to the weather, designers can either use an artificial process or create a faux finish.
Most artificial methods use only simple household ingredients, such as salt, white vinegar and dish soap. However, there are likely many variations that would result in a suitable verdigris finish. Smaller pieces used throughout the home, such as planters, lamp bases and picture frames, would be perfect for this type of treatment.
To achieve a verdigris finish on larger areas or on elements that are not made from metal, it may be best to apply a faux finish. Home improvement stores and craft centers often carry kits that contain everything needed to create a faux finish of this type, but it can easily be achieved using various shades of blue, green and metallic paints. A faux finish would be ideal for headboards, kitchen cabinets or even an accent wall.
Using various types of metals in home decorating is a growing design trend. Using bright verdigris colors in interior and exterior projects is a great way to add some punch to the popular rustic look. The best method for creating this finish would depend on how it is being used and the desired effect.
Verdigris refers to the color and texture that often forms on the surface of metals such as copper, brass or bronze. Its greenish color has rust-colored spots or blue flecks throughout. The Statue of Liberty is probably the most well-known example of this patina. Many visitors to the statue are surprised that its vivid colors have occurred through a natural process and that it has not been painted.
Oxidation or other chemical processes are typically what causes this naturally occurring patina to form on metal surfaces. Exposing metal to seawater or air is the most common occurrence. How quickly the color develops depends on whether it is in an urban or industrial environment and what naturally occurring elements are found there.
The beautiful greens, blues and rust colors of this patina are quite popular with building designers, landscapers and interior decorators. While it may take some time to develop the patina by leaving metals exposed to the elements, building designers and landscapers typically account for this process in their planning. However, interior decorators often work with materials and furnishings that wouldn't hold up to outdoor elements for an extended period of time. Other methods that either speed up or mimic the process may be more suitable for these applications.
Incorporating elements that have a verdigris finish has become an increasing trend in interior design. It is a great way to infuse a bit of color while also adding the rustic charm that has become so popular with many homeowners. To add this finish to indoor elements that cannot be exposed to the weather, designers can either use an artificial process or create a faux finish.
Most artificial methods use only simple household ingredients, such as salt, white vinegar and dish soap. However, there are likely many variations that would result in a suitable verdigris finish. Smaller pieces used throughout the home, such as planters, lamp bases and picture frames, would be perfect for this type of treatment.
To achieve a verdigris finish on larger areas or on elements that are not made from metal, it may be best to apply a faux finish. Home improvement stores and craft centers often carry kits that contain everything needed to create a faux finish of this type, but it can easily be achieved using various shades of blue, green and metallic paints. A faux finish would be ideal for headboards, kitchen cabinets or even an accent wall.
Using various types of metals in home decorating is a growing design trend. Using bright verdigris colors in interior and exterior projects is a great way to add some punch to the popular rustic look. The best method for creating this finish would depend on how it is being used and the desired effect.
