The verdigris patina that is formed on certain metals when they are exposed to the elements has become part of a popular design trend used in buildings, landscapes and interior design. While the naturally occurring process that creates the bright blue and green colors may take time, there are methods to speed up the process on smaller items. However, a faux finish may work best for some projects.
The colors and texture that form on certain metal surfaces, such as brass, copper or bronze, are known as verdigris. It is largely pale green and may have rust-colored areas as well as blue spots. This patina is commonly associated with The Statue of Liberty. The statue's vivid colors are a result of this natural process, which surprises many visitors who previously assumed it had been painted.
This naturally occurring patina is produced by oxidation or other chemical processes. Most often, this occurs when metal is exposed to air or seawater, becoming weathered over time. The coloring may develop quickly or may take years, depending on whether the environment is urban or industrial and what elements are found in the area.
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.
The verdigris finish has become more visible in today's interior design trends. It adds a vibrant punch of color when working with the rustic elements many homeowners are looking for. Fortunately, designers have the options of using an artificial method to speed up the process or creating a faux finish.
Creating a verdigris finish using an artificial process can be done in several fairly simple ways. The easiest process typically involves basic ingredients found in the home, such as white vinegar, salt and dish soap. This treatment would work well for small decorative items, such as picture frames, lamp bases or planters.
For large areas and for those pieces that are not made from metal, a faux finish may be the best way to achieve the desired look. Craft centers and home improvement stores would be the best places to find a kit that contain supplies for creating a verdigris finish. However, the desired effect can also be achieved using basic paints in shades of green, blue and metallic rust colors. This type of finish is best for accent walls, kitchen cabinets and even headboards.
Incorporating verdigris colors into exterior or interior design projects will add some punch to an otherwise rustic design. The trend will likely continue as the use of metals in interior design gains popularity. The best method for achieving this look will depend on where it's being applied and the intended use of the piece.
The colors and texture that form on certain metal surfaces, such as brass, copper or bronze, are known as verdigris. It is largely pale green and may have rust-colored areas as well as blue spots. This patina is commonly associated with The Statue of Liberty. The statue's vivid colors are a result of this natural process, which surprises many visitors who previously assumed it had been painted.
This naturally occurring patina is produced by oxidation or other chemical processes. Most often, this occurs when metal is exposed to air or seawater, becoming weathered over time. The coloring may develop quickly or may take years, depending on whether the environment is urban or industrial and what elements are found in the area.
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.
The verdigris finish has become more visible in today's interior design trends. It adds a vibrant punch of color when working with the rustic elements many homeowners are looking for. Fortunately, designers have the options of using an artificial method to speed up the process or creating a faux finish.
Creating a verdigris finish using an artificial process can be done in several fairly simple ways. The easiest process typically involves basic ingredients found in the home, such as white vinegar, salt and dish soap. This treatment would work well for small decorative items, such as picture frames, lamp bases or planters.
For large areas and for those pieces that are not made from metal, a faux finish may be the best way to achieve the desired look. Craft centers and home improvement stores would be the best places to find a kit that contain supplies for creating a verdigris finish. However, the desired effect can also be achieved using basic paints in shades of green, blue and metallic rust colors. This type of finish is best for accent walls, kitchen cabinets and even headboards.
Incorporating verdigris colors into exterior or interior design projects will add some punch to an otherwise rustic design. The trend will likely continue as the use of metals in interior design gains popularity. The best method for achieving this look will depend on where it's being applied and the intended use of the piece.
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