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+--- Thread: How to Antique Aluminum (/showthread.php?tid=85257)
How to Antique Aluminum - ZellaHyday - 12-31-2021
Step 1
Clean off the metal with a dust cloth to prepare the metal for antiquing. If there is dust or grime on the metal, use a microfiber cloth and water to clean the aluminum.
Step 2
Make a few rub and scratch marks to imitate wear using a fine-grit sandpaper. Think of typical wear areas, such as corners and edges, and lightly rub the fine-grit sandpaper on those areas. Dust off sanded areas to remove any grit.
Step 3
Rub a thin coat of olive or linseed oil onto the aluminum using latex gloves. Lightly go over the entirety of the metal with a piece of fine steel wool and smooth out the scratches made by the sandpaper. Wipe off all of the oil using a microfiber cloth or towel.
Step 4
Coat the aluminum with a thick layer of clear car wax. Attach a brass brush bit to a power drill and go over the entire surface of the aluminum. Varying pressure will result in areas of the metal looking brighter or darker than others.
Step 5
Remove the wax with a microfiber cloth. Rub some areas more than others to give those areas a brighter sheen. Evaluate the aluminum and decide if the look you achieved is exactly what you want. Repeat any of the steps as preferred to get that perfect antiqued patina.