Hi there

I  do a lot of etched pieces which I then oxidize. When the black is wet it's nice and clear but when it dries it can go quite grey and more 'shadowy'. Does anybody have any tips for a coating that can help to preserve the blackness.

Thanks in anticipation

Rachel

Isn't that a bummer? You love how it looks....and then it dries and isn't quite as special.

I personally  like Renaissance Microcrystalline wax for deepening colors. But if that's not enough, you may need to use a clear spray lacquer in either matte or glossy.

I'd experiment with a number of products on some pieces to find the solution you like best - just make sure to wear the pieces a while afterward to see how the coating handles over time.

 ~Addie~

 P.S. The answer might also be in your choice of patina. Some patinas turn out blacker than others.

Thanks for that Addie - it's really helpful. I'm based in Australia so not sure what's available over here but I shall have a look & give what you suggest a go (normally it's not too much of a problem getting things from the States but the exchange rate makes that a bit more tricky at the moment....).

The patina I use is Millox and, because I haven't been doing this for very long it's the only one I've tried - do you know anything about it or if I might be better off with a different one?

Thanks again

Rachel

 Hi Addie

Now my turn for a p.s..........are there any particular spray lacquers you would recommend as I'm not sure where to start looking....

Many thanks

Rachel

I use liver of sulfur for a black patina on silver and for a clear finish I often use Krylon spray finishes that are available at most home improvement centers.