Shhh…we wont tell your Mama if you dont.
Patina, however, doesnt have to occur on such a grand scale.
Even the most common household objects can develop patina over time, giving them an undeniably sophisticated look.
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Tom Hooper is co-owner and co-craftsman behindASL Pewter, a renowned pewter shop in Ste.
How Does Patina Form?
Metalworking as been a part of Jason Fredricks family for over 30 years.
Credit: Photo: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Barbara Schmidt
He has contributed to some of Americas most historically significant buildings, such as The Homestead and Monticello.
Patina forms when metal reacts to its environment.
Is Patina A Bad Thing?
Credit: Photo: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Barbara Schmidt
In fact, in coastal or maritime tweaks, brass is often preferred because it can withstand the elements.
Brass doorknobs and hinges will go through what Tom Hooper calls honest patina, or the naturally darkening process.
How Do You Maintain Patina?
In short, avoid vigorous polishing, or at the very least, avoid abrasive polishing.
What if natural patina happens too quickly?
If natural patina is happening too quickly, Fredrick recommends Renaissance Wax to slow it down.
Is Patina A Sign Of Quality?
Both of our experts say yes and no.
ASL Pewter has a museum finish inspired by the primitive decor trend.
Today, Hooper is seeing a rise in their traditional shiny pewter finish which (bonus!)
Each expert, however, says that the patina process ultimately cant be replicated.
If the magnet sticks, youve actually found a steel item covered in brass versus a solid brass item.
Quality materials will age well over time.
Hooper sources his pewter within the U.S. as does Shades of Light.
In fact, they get theirs from Revere Copper.
Yes, that Revere.
Talk about aging well!
