Rusted Away

Rusted Patina is something we have often wanted to imitate. But before we jump into “how to” let’s start by looking at actual finishes. There are many different products and techniques to replicate a rust finish. Most of us like the idea of a project that is quick and easy without using chemicals or high VOC paints.

What exactly does rust look like? What are the distinct colors you see when rust forms? And how and where does rust begin? The answers to these questions are helpful information when trying to imitate nature.

How Does Rust Begin?

Rust starts with wrought Iron which is iron and carbon. When Iron, air, and water combine forming a compound called iron oxide. The only metal that contains iron can rust.

What Color is Rust?

But rust is not black and brown. It is more of a reddish color. Everyone thinks of rust as having orange in it, And yes it does, but it also has a red component. Many times the range of colors is incredible.

What Does Rust Look Like?

Given sufficient time, oxygen, and water, iron will eventually convert entirely to rust and disintegrate. Surface rust is flaky and bubbly
To find some great rust, I did not have far to look to find out.

Then I took this photo of the rust on my antique French marble table that sits on our porch. Now that is lovely rust.

But the red color is bubbling up. It is not just sitting flat as a color it has texture. That is because of how rust forms. Water under the top coat of the iron object oxidized the iron, and it fails to create movement in the top layers and bubbling.

Naturally, rust forms along the edges on ridges and tops areas that collect water.

Humm….. so how to do this, so it seems realistic without using chemicals to change the color. Next part of our series

xoxo Lydia