Flame Coloring Copper

Using the oxygen acetylene torch to flame color copper. This is just a quick example. With some practice and patience you can create outstanding results.

[@5809AUJG]

It is always a joy to watch a master at work, especially one who teaches us so well. Thank you! And thanks too for your quick response to my question on welding tanks. It was truly helpful!

[@897473]

Thanks for watching. I use flame coloring mainly for coloring leaf sculptures. It is not major part of what I do. Some people have taken Flame Coloring to fine art. His work is really impressive.

[@CharlesStruble]

This technique is one of the most fun that I learned from you. Thanks George.

[@CharlesStruble]

First time I tried flame coloring, after watching your butterfly video, it was like magic. The randomness is so fun. Thanks for teaching me this technique George. Why I buy your videos! I always learn something new and fun.

[@Methelinhill]

Can't wait to try flame coloring!

[@azuriterocks2152]

I've started years back. I want to learn as much from you here before I begin. I'm a wood carver and want to add these elements to my work. So a marathon it is!

[@897473]

Hoping to have a new flame coloring video uup i the next few months. Complete listing of the best KZbin videos: gsegmedia.com/?page_id=4657

[@mechanical1955]

That is very nice , like the way you managed to get the oranges and red , brilliant

[@cian9488]

This is very fun to work with👍🏽

[@Dharlanna]

Wow that was fast! thank you. i am just so impressed.

[@897473]

Losing the color is a problem. I generally try to get the most vibrant colors possible. Then if I lose a little color it doesn't matter as much. If I don't get the vibrant colors I wire brush again and start over. I've had pieces that I have repeated the process five or six times until I get what I want. You might try different brands of clear coating. You could also try waxing the copper.

[@Oneness100]

Apparantly, there are people that use a heat gun that is a lower temperature also works great and it easier to get the dark purples, blues, reds, etc.

[@AislinneG]

Thank you so much George, this is very helpful. :)

[@897473]

That's interesting. I'll have to give that a try.

[@897473]

@381polaris You can try using a very light flame. When you get the color you want quench it in water. Of course that is only going to work if the piece is small enough to get into a bucket or other container. The copper plating is a very thin layer, meaning that you can easily burn off the copper and leave just the steel. This is the reason that you will want to use a very light flame. I've never tried it, but you might start with using a small propane torch before using a O/A torch.

[@897473]

Classy Geek; I use a steel brush. Color Progression? For me it is a trial and error process. Actually, I have never thought in terms of which color appears first and so on. Good to hear that you like the videos.

[@897473]

Yes, I use either a clear spray lacquer or clear spray acrylic.

[@897473]

Took a look at your web site. You do some fine work!

[@897473]

To buy an oxy/ace outfit look in the yellow pages under welding for businesses that sell oxygen and acetylene. The wire brush I use is a steel wire brush I buy at Harbor Freight for about $8.00.

[@larrybohlken147]

I could tell I could trust you by the state of your hands. Working hands are honest hands.

[@897473]

Thanks for a great compliment.

[@897473]

Glad you like these. Check out my KZbin videos and look for 3 Oxygen Acetylene flames. I use the oxidizing flame. Go out in the yard and choose a maple leaf. Make a permanent pattern and then draw around it with a felt marker. Then use the oxidizing flame to cut them out of copper. You have to be quick or the felt marker line will disappear.

[@897473]

For copper maple leaves I use a oxidizing flame. That is using the oxygen acetylene torch. An oxidizing flame has the oxygen turned up. It severs the copper rather than cuts it. Cutting would leave a clean edge and severing leaves a jagged edge. If you go through my KZbin videos you will find a video on "3 Oxygen acetylene flames".

[@dirah3040]

I watched your video yesterday and loved it. Today I have found your book on Amazon,com: Brazing Metal Sculpture - 2nd Edition: A Beginners Guide Kindle Edition. These things happen for a reason and I am to learn from you. Thank you.

[@897473]

+Bonnie Earnest Thanks Bonnie. For an in more depth look at Brazing, here is a link to the complete list of my KZbin videos: gsegmedia.com/?page_id=2877

[@msnormavega]

Thank you, once again! I know understand why my colors are not as vibrant! I didn't brush the copper at the beginning.

[@897473]

Even with wire brushing, you will still lose a little color when spraying with a clear aerosol. Which is the reason that I try to get the brightest colors possible. Then, if I lose a little color when spraying, I I still end up with good color. Sometimes I have to wire brush the color off and start over to get the colors I want. For me, it really is a trial and error process.

[@897473]

I have never used Butane. You can give it a try and if you don't like what you get you can always wire brush away the color and try again.

[@897473]

Most acids will give you a patina. The weaker the acid the longer it takes to work. Once you get what you want, flush with water to neutralize the acid. I've never done what you are suggesting. "Liver of Sulpher" is another option which will give you a black finish. I think you could get some interesting effects. Look forward to hearing how it worked out.

[@897473]

That's an interesting idea. Thanks for the idea.

[@hanzokendo]

@897473 I was able to get a variety of colors using a standard plumbers propane torch. Took some playing to get the heat to spread just right, but a cheap introduction for those lacking more power. Thanks for the vid good sir!

[@897473]

Krylon Crustal Clear comes in satin and gloss. I prefer the gloss.

[@897473]

@sljp32798 I have never tried a propane torch. I am sure you can get some color using a propane torch.

[@rrketc2]

Hello, This is really great stuff for me. Thanks for the video. Those maple leaves looked really cool. How do you make the maple leaves? Is there a layout available?

[@897473]

Depth of color: The color is only on the surface. I have never soldered after the copper is flame colored. If it was me I would do the soldering before spraying with a clear spray. Whether the colors will change when soldering depends on how large the piece of copper is. What I'd suggest is working with a piece of scrap copper and doing some trial runs. Remember, if you do not like the flame coloring you can wire brush it off.

[@ElisabethP]

Ah, I see in your Henrob video, you say, "I use either a standard clear lacquer or Krylon clear." Thank you. :)

[@897473]

I've never tried an oven but I doubt that it would work. An oven would give you an all over heat. Would heat the entire piece evenly. I've always wondered if the gas burners on a stove would work - but I've always had an electric stove. You might try a small propane torch like you can get at a hardware store. Some of the small propane outfits have small tips. The smaller the tip the more pin-pointed the heat. I like to hit several places with the torch and let the color expand.

[@rrketc2]

George, I was wondering what you think of using a patina solution for coloring copper. I was thinking you could put various scratches and of indentations in the medium and then hit it with patina and sand it down later. Only the marks would be green I think. That might lead to a nice artistic touch. What do you think? Also, do you know of a good patina formula?

[@ClassyGeek]

Hi George - Could you tell me which wire brush? Brass or steel? And do you have a list of the color progression? You know red, blue, green - that sort of thing. You videos are great!

[@vs.7295]

How do i get colors to stay when i put on laquer they disappeared

[@897473]

I'm sure it can, but I have never flame colored copper pipe. I've only flame colored sheet copper. Give it a try. If you don't get what you want, you can wire brush off the flame coloring and start over.

[@lukelohman5572]

I was wondering if you knew what to use to cut the copper to get the melted or jagged look on the edges? Like on some of the vintage brutalist copper pieces?

[@rachelbearce9825]

After watching this video, I have try it out myself. I was wondering if this process work on thinner copper as well?

[@897473]

Rachel, I'm sure it will. Probably take less heat than heavier copper. Takes a little practice to get exactly what you want. If you don't get what you want you can wire brush or steel wool the color off and start over. George

[@ElisabethP]

I was wondering if you'd share the brand of clear coat you like. Whatever I've used in the past hasn't last long and the copper seems to tarnish/change faster than I would have expected despite applying 2 coats.

[@897473]

Oxy.Ace Neutral Flame "00" tip

[@hangten1904]

This guy sounds like Earl Nightingale!

[@krisviacrusis3129]

Hi George I have this project in mind for my bicycle frame. I have a chromoly steel frame road bike and i wanted to have a raw finish with flamed colors like this on the welds. I am just concerned if how the heat will affect the steel of the frame? Will it melt the welds inside the frame? or affect the steels durability? Thanks

[@897473]

I primarily color copper. I've never flame colored chromoly steel. There are a lot of frame building sites - suggest you ask there.

[@897473]

Yes, but with thin copper you must be careful that you don't burn a hole in the copper.

[@trickynicky4268]

Wow! My Mom bought me a small butane cooks torch for me to try this out but I've been too scared to give it a try. Would this technique work with a butane torch and what is the best gauge of copper to use? i was thinking about buying some copper blanks to use in my jewelry making. What do you mean by 'wire brushing' the copper? Is that the same as polishing it? Sorry for all the questions but you seem to know exactly what you are doing.

[@897473]

I don't know about butane. If it will work I'd suggest trying some copper foil or something very thin to start with. You can get this at a craft store. I would start with the thinness that you can get and then work up to heavier copper. Wire Brushing: Copper becomes oxidized when it is exposed to the atmosphere. At first it just loses its luster. The copper can be wire brushed to bring back that luster by removing the oxidation. A very fine sand paper will do the same or some steel wool.. The best part is that if you don't get what you want you can wire brush, steel wool or sand the coloring off and start over. Have fun experimenting!

[@litemup67]

I've colored copper before but I'm not sure how to preserve the blue shades and still protect the metal. Example, I made a copper windchime and when I painted clear coat on the chimes and rings the color vanished, but I don't know how else to keep the color from tarnishing. Do you have any suggestions?

[@glassartist321]

HI, I was wondering, I have seen artists that have a very controlled process for coloring metal. You can see some of this persons work on etsy his shop name is dawily. I was wondering if you have ever done this type of work or if you know how it is done. Thanks for sharing your pretty work...

[@Dharlanna]

Insanely beautiful! Could this technique be done with a small butane torch?

[@mariadonoso9673]

Sii

[@yaelli1073]

Hey George I want to use this coloring for a drinking cup, do you know which cover / lacquer to use so the patina won't change its color after painting and will be food safe? all the covers I tried to use changing the colors of my project thanks a lot :) Yael

[@897473]

Good question! I have no idea and don't even have a suggestion of where you can get that information. Maybe someone else reading this will have a suggestion.

[@lindamarrero1206]

Hi!! I hope this clear up your doubts!!: Copper exists naturally in small quantities in the human body. It’s necessary to help regulate oxygen in the blood stream, and is even found in minute amounts in our drinking water. But too much copper can cause major health problems. While acute cases of copper poisoning can be treated, long-term overconsumption of copper can lead to copper toxicity, which affects multiple systems in the body, including the stomach, kidneys, liver, and brain. Heating copper to hot temperatures and cooking acidic food in copper cookware are especially likely to lead to ill effects. For these reasons, the sale of pure copper kitchenware is often restricted to decorating purposes only. Fortunately, Moscow Mule lovers and avid home decorators alike can have their copper and drink from it too. So how are copper mugs safe to drink from? It’s all in the lining. Most copper mugs for sale in the United States are lined with tin or stainless steel, both of which are perfectly safe to drink from at any temperature. This interior lining prevents chemical reactions between copper and the ingredients of the drink and it also prevents copper from leaking into your cocktail. While used less frequently, even unlined copper mugs are safe to drink from depending on a few factors. They must be filled only with cold or room-temperature beverages. They must not be filled with an acidic substance. Both heat and acidity react with copper, dissolving it and causing it to potentially leak into your drink. If you plan on drinking from an unlined copper mug, consider using disposable or washable inserts or ensure that it does not come into contact with high temperatures. For an unique result I will try with a porcelain lining which I don't know if it is possible!!! Have a great day and thanks for the video!!!

[@facepainting8331]

Hi Yael, did you try a wax vs a lacquer ?

[@juliekidd9750]

In y experience, butane darkens the copper and does not give the pretty colors as seen here. I prefer propane and I use a pencil tip.

[@spike8011]

is their any possible way to keep the color, all the color. is their any other kind of lacker that wont change the color as much?

[@Oneness100]

SInce it is copper, do you have to use some sort of clear coat to protect it?

[@normagreen6571]

Beautiful can this be done with a Mapp Gas torch? What is the gauge of the copper you use?

[@897473]

Norma Green Norma, I've never used Mapp Gas. I use oxygen acetylene but I know It can be done with propane if using a pencil tip. The tip of the torch is more important than the gas. Pencil tip is for a very low flame. I'm using 16 oz. copper which is about 25 gauge.

[@normagreen6571]

Thanks very much for your response. You do beautiful work and I love your videos

[@Carolynsane60]

Ca marche aussi avec le petit brûleur du gaz !!! C'est magnifique mais ça ne tient pas! Merci pour le tuto!

[@salchipapa8000]

where can i get an oxygen acetylene torch ? also , is there a special kind of wire brush that you use for this ? where can i get one ?

[@giovannialbanese7985]

hi is it a permanent color change if clear aerosol is not applyed, or it can fade away when we polish out copper oxide?

[@897473]

Giovanni, the color change will fade over time as the copper begins to oxidize. You might look at some metallurgical sites that offer more information.

[@giovannialbanese7985]

Thank you so much George

[@351wsvo]

What sort of flame are you using?

[@diymanic8869]

How permanent exactly is this treatment? Do I need to seal the finished piece somehow?

[@897473]

Yes you need to seal. I use a clear spray such as Rust Oleum Crystal Clear aersol

[@diymanic8869]

Thank you for all your answers - very helpful indeed!!

[@897473]

Once the piece is clear coated it should last for years.

[@beebeej1]

after coating will it still have the effects of copper? I mean jewelry.

[@dickidydoodah]

Can this be done on copper pipe?

[@joshramirez853]

Wher can i purchase copper sheets the size of the butterfly

[@897473]

IF you just want to do a few butterflies, you can find some on amazon.com. www.amazon.com/Copper-Sheet-Metal-12/dp/B00AKMNNX4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1513569199&sr=8-1&keywords=16+oz.+copper+sheet If you want t do a lot of butterflies, then you will need to do a Google search for 16 oz copper sheet. Find the best price and cost of shipping. There are a lot of online sources.

[@marie501061]

Do you have to put it in water after coloring with flame because I tried not cooling with water and cooling with water there was no difference the color faded, I must be doing something wrong.

[@897473]

Marie, I've found that I need to move the torch away before I get the optimal color. When I remove the torch flame the color will continue to change. A few weeks ago I did some copper maple leaves. I hadn't done any copper coloring recently and it took me some practice to get exactly what I wanted. That meant that I had to wire brush the copper and remove the coloring and start over. I used a small tip and reduced the fame on the oxygen acetylene torch. For me, it's important that I get the optimal color because when I spray paint with a clear aerosol, some of the color fades. The only time I use flame coloring is for leaves and butterflies. You might check some other KZbin videos on flame coloring. There are people doing flame coloring that are far better at it then me.

[@marie501061]

Hello George thank you for your quick reply, I was asking this question because this weak end I made myself a little pendant with a small piece of tubing just to try out the flame coloring I beat it a lot with the hammer to make scratchers and bumps but when it was hot the colors were super nice but when it cooled down the color faded away,I am new at this I only started after you inspired me with your very nice videos, so I guess I have a whole lot of practice to do before I get good results,this is for my personal fun so I have a lot of time to practice, so thanks again

[@897473]

Marie, I don't quench the copper. however, a lot of people do. Just a personal preference. With a small piece like your pendant, it's a bit more difficult compared to larger pieces of copper. If you got the color you want and then it disappeared, I think it probably continued to color once your flame was removed. Try taking your torch flame away a little sooner.

[@marie501061]

Thank you for this info.

[@dorismcguire2103]

I have a piece of freeform copper that had been molten, poured and let cool in a random pattern. It's about 1/4" thick in most places. I would like to bring some of the oranges and reds out on the piece. Do you know if molten copper reacts differently than sheet copper? I have a propane torch, but I will gladly purchase a different type of torch if you think I may be able to achieve good results on this type of copper. I own one of your copper and brass leaf sculptures and I absolutely love it. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and talent with us.

[@897473]

Doris, I would think that you would be able to get even more interesting effects with a uneven piece of copper compared to a flat sheet. The only problem with the propane torch is the broad flame. You might try shield different parts of the copper with a sheet of metal. Of course you will want to wear gloves or use pliers to hold onto the sheet of metal. No matter what you get, it will only be a surface color. If you don't like it, wire brush off the color and try again. It's really a trial and error process. I use copper coloring on leaves which I do occasionally. When I haven't done it for a while it is like beginning all over again. Best advice is to relax, have fun and find yourself amazed at all the different colors you can come up with. George

[@dorismcguire2103]

George Goehl Thank you for the quick response. I look forward to experimenting. :)

[@Lattee5282]

When i am trying this sometimes my copper turns ugly gray how do i get color back

[@897473]

Linda, not sure what to suggest. I've never had copper turn gray. You should be able to wire brush the copper to bring it back to the original finish. How large is the piece of copper? How thick is it? What heat source are you using to flame color? Depending on the size of your piece of copper, you can also soak it in White Vinegar for several hours. That should return the copper to a pink color. Then neutralize the copper in running water. From there you can either wire brush or use steel wool to bring the copper back to a copper finish.

[@Lattee5282]

When i say gray i just cant get color just a yucky dull color .... Now keep in mind i am brand new to this im sure its all in the technique. I have been watching your videos and inspire to be as good :-)

[@897473]

Couple of points: 1) Check out some other flame coloring videos on KZbin. There are people who do flame coloring on a regular basis that are better at it than me. 2) the "yucky" dull color means that you have gone past the point of good color. Clean off and start over. 3) try just hitting the copper with the flame and then taking the flame away. It take a few seconds for the copper to begin to color.

[@joeyjojo6148]

Linda Harrison I think a reducing flame would reverse the change. I’m not 100% sure, though.

[@staceyweaver788]

I've had to do pieces over and over until I get some color. When I get that dull gray, I just buff it again on a grinding wheel (with the wire wheel, not the grinding one). I haven't tried wire brushing, but I am going to.

[@897473]

I have an online gallery at gsegmedia you can email me from there under contact

[@897473]

Suggestion de Goof. Je n'ai jamais essayé un brûleur à gaz.

[@897473]

Goof sugerencia. Nunca he probado un quemador de gas.

[@dh00715492]

5:23, the coper plate is unhappy it has been burned, it has a sad face :(

[@SunburstFlame]

MY U TUBE LAST NAMR

[@SunburstFlame]

NAME WOW

[@theTORTUGAZUL]

Is this a 1970's video? I see butterflies like that all of the time at thrift stores.