How to Create Patina on Copper

I've played around for a long time to learn how to create different colored patinas on my copper jewelry.  I've decided to share some of the techniques & tips so that you can do it too!

The blueing chamber is simple, just take any plastic container with a lid.  In this one, I put ammonia on a cotton ball, added the copper and put the lid on tightly.  You leave this in until you get the color you want.  The copper should not touch the ammonia, it's the fumes that do the work.

You can also add the ammonia to sawdust, this allows for additional saturation which leads to the deeper blue color.  If you sprinkle the pieces with salt, those spots will stay copper and make an interesting affect.  

Once you have the color you like, just wash the piece with water and flake off any of the loose patina.  You will have to seal the blued pieces.  I just use a Krylon clear coat in a few light layers.  

Here's a finished piece of jewelry using the blueing technique!

Here Be Dragons

I just love dragons!  I have quite a collection - pewter figurines, stuffed dragons and my favorite, a ceramic dragon flute.  

I also have an extensive collection of novels dealing with dragons.  I'm quite intrigued by the different ways authors refresh this iconic character.  One of my all time favorites is "Tea with the Black Dragon" by R.A. McAvoy.  My latest read is a young adult novel "The Last Dragon" by Silvana De Mari.  My son read it for his 7th grade english class so I read it as well.  There's an interesting political theme that provided me an opportunity open a discussion with him.  He hasn't developed a good grasp on recognizing themes, he's still at the stage where he just enjoys the story.  

Enjoy these great reads for summer and check out my dragon choker/necklace and earrings.