Bronze, made by combining copper and tin, has been a popular decorative material for centuries. Sculptures, fixtures, and architectural elements can all be made from bronze. When working with bronze, the appearance of the final product largely depends on the finishing process. Bronze finishing also protects the metal from aging and color changing due to exposure to the elements.
Instructions
Finishing
1. Use a large chisel to remove any sprues that remain from when the bronze was cast. Also chisel off any large imperfections.
2. Smooth the bronze surface using the coarsest polishing cloth. Remove any debris or damaged areas from the surface when using the coarsest cloth. Gradually use less-coarse cloths to achieve the desired smooth surface.
3. Chisel any necessary details into the bronze. For a human figure, chisel in hair and fingernails. For decorative pieces of bronze, carve any designs or text.
4. Use a fine polishing cloth to smooth out the edges of any newly chiseled areas and to bring all surfaces to the final smoothness.
5. Clean the bronze thoroughly with a clean cotton cloth. Use a foam brush to apply several coats of transparent lacquer, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated space before applying the next coat. Follow manufacturer specifications in deciding how many layers to apply and how long to wait between layers.
6. Rub a natural wax, such as carnauba, onto the lacquered surface. Allow it to dry and then buff it off with another clean cotton cloth.
