Ways to blacken stainless steel without selenium
April 24, 2012Q. I am working on a series of environmentally friendly ways to patina various metals.
My question is this: Is there any way to blacken stainless steel that doesn't involve selenium. I have heard that phosphoric acid can have this effect, but have not had any luck so far.
I am looking for a method that could be applied to large pieces of furniture, so immersion wouldn't be my first choice.
Regards
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
April 25, 2012
- Zagreb, Croatia
A. Old and good oil blackening is simplest way to blacken SS. Oil it very, very lightly and then heat it to max 400 C (slowly, you can use hot air gun). Any edible oil can be used but linseed is the best. Hope it helps and good luck!
Goran Budija- Zagreb, Croatia
