Thrifty Vintage Copper - Where to find it, how to clean it, and how I use mine!

One element I love incorporating into my home decor is copper. I think many assume you have to spend a lot of money on copper, so today I want to share with you my thrifty vintage copper collection and how to clean it!
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[@hollyschmitz9771]

I so understand the joy of collecting copper! My grandfather came over from Norway in the late 1800's. He did decorative tin work on trolley cars in Boston. His hobby was making decorative copper pieces for his wife. . My mother, her four sisters and even her brother inherited a few pieces and continued to collect copper. In fact, from his parents the brother inherited a tea pot made from two pennies. It even poured. Their homes were very homey with copper well displayed and used in all their homes. I always loved it and started collecting my own copper when I was married at twenty years old. I never paid much and always considered it such "a find" when I brought home a new piece. First thing I did was polish it. Sometimes I wasn't even sure it was copper until It was polished! I'm 77 now and certainly have quite a collection! The biggest piece is a free-standing round copper fireplace which is used as a planter. It was purchased in Vermont and eventually settled here in California, via Massachusets, Connecticut, Rhode Island. My X husband cruelly kept the copper I had collected during our thirty-year-marriage. Of course I started collecting copper again. Eventually he ended up living near me in CA. He kept the fireplace outside where it became so tarnished, etc. He thought it was ruined. He finally gave it to me a few years ago. I spent many days polishing it with Barkeepers Best Friend. It looks so perfect in my home. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed with keeping the copper looking nice since I don't really the tarnished look. However, it's good exercise and brings me happiness. I found an umbrella stand at an estate sale a week ago. Unfortunately it needs something stronger than Barkeeper's Best Friend. Tomorrow I'll try acetone. Wish me success.

[@katiehale4411]

Thanks for the info. Because the double boiler is not old doesn’t mean it’s not a great piece. I love it.

[@soulspacehomestead4941]

Just a thought, I believe your oblong copper piece may not be a planter but a terrine pot that is used in cooking, they usually come with a lid.

[@thomaswiegand7348]

White vinegar and salt also a good choice here. When I was a teenager I cleaned pennies with this to place in my penny loafer shoes---so cool!

[@janefromthecountry1820]

Thomas- thanks for the tip- 🌾

[@janefromthecountry1820]

Your antique copper brings so much charm to your kitchen. I love your baskets, floral, antiques, vessels, and the hardwood in your home. 🌾

[@dianejohnson7235]

Your copper pieces are so beautiful and fit in your cottage home perfectly!

[@jaynebrown693]

Andrea... I love our little lesson on Copper and tips on telling if it is real,etc ! So interesting and I have always admired you beautiful collection! I remember when you got that collection of Tea/Coffee Pots with your Mom !! How beautiful that double boiler is! Is the insert porcelain? Such a lovely piece and the Tea Kettles from your Grandfather are beautiful. This was a really nice video, I enjoyed all the information you gave us ! Have a blessed weekend ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️💙❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

[@bobbietheeveningstitcher6841]

We just did a major gut and remodel of our kitchen/dining area and before they even started, I began my search for vintage or antique copper cookware. It's fairly easy to find, but the prices do vary...my price point is $30...nothing above. I was so happy to see your video on copper!!!! I did not know about the magnet trick. I have not cleaned my copper pieces...I love the tarnished look. Thanks so much! Love your channel & I'm a Michigan gal too!

[@rebeccah8075]

Hello Andrea, I live in France and here we use wood ash from the stove mixed with lemon juice. 🍋 Also rubbing your copper with sorrel leaves helps to shine them up 🙂

[@phoebedigs1356]

You can still use the double boiler. It works very well. Love your videos!

[@shirleycarter2451]

Love that your into copper, when I got married I trested myself to new copper coffee/sugar/tea caddies and also paster jars and few jelly molds to hang up, but my OCD back then after ten yrs of cleaning said get rid and I went more boho and use wood, do retreat it know, I've got old bed pan and trumpet that my grandfather collected from antique shops,( he passed away 35yr now, ) I remember them from when I was little, mum and dad used to deal in expensive antiques and know some will be coming my way, but now I look back and because they meant so much to my dearly departed I love them even more. That recent kettle from your grandfather is similar to one of mine. Xxxx

[@wanderertimetogo348]

Andrea, love your copper. Your double boiler is beautiful. It has a lid so keep an eye out for one. I have one too. I use mine to melt my chocolate at Christmas time.

[@reginawilliams3035]

Your copper collectin is beautiful tarnish and all!!

[@PineandProspectHome]

Thank you so much!

[@netamorton6187]

The double boiler is my favorite and so beautiful!

[@canadiangirl5159]

I found a beautiful copper frying pan with a thick heavy handle at a thrift store for 3 dollars. As soon as I saw it I knew I had to have it.

[@vickysalazar638]

BEAUTIFUL collection 🤩😍🥰👏👍👌 thanks to your inspirational videos I started to collect antique copper pieces and Baskets 🧺 and let me say I love them❤️❤️❤️thank you for the tips on how to clean the copper 👍👍👍have a wonderful weekend 🤗

[@sharonrose2963]

I never really had my eye on copper...until I saw it in your home. It's perfect for your aesthetic, but not so much mine. Now something I admire. Thanks for sharing!

[@sophiamagkouta3665]

Very informative video! Thank you so much! I have some items from my grandmother or great grandmother and I didn't know how to incorporate them in my home, although I liked them a lot! I am so happy I found your channel, I leave in Greece Europe and I love the country house style.

[@janetsways4176]

A few years ago I was going through a very rough period in my life. In an effort to get organized and hopefully bring peace to my mind and life, I allow all my silver a most of my copper to be donated. Because I wasn’t “using” it. I cannot tell you what a huge mistake that was! Thankfully I have a few pieces left... maybe someday I’ll come across others to replace what I lost. Just be careful when you have people come into your house to “help” you. You have some beautiful pieces.

[@madonnahughey3056]

Huge copper fan here too😊❤️. I received some for wedding gifts in 1985 and have my mom's tea kettle that sat on her stove❤️❤️. Thanks for sharing, stay safe and congratulations 👣

[@bowler8]

I used to live about 10 miles from Highclere Castle, the castle in Downton, used to visit regularly

[@galecoldwell-coldwellbanke5477]

I have a lot of copper which belonged to both my mother and my grandmother. You'll think I'm crazy, but I almost have too much! I don't have most of it displayed in my current home, as I am trying to build individual display shelves, so I can display everything. I also use Bar Keeper's Friend. I have noticed that you have to be extremely careful when using it, though, as it will scratch. I enjoyed your video and would be interested to see more of how you display your collections. Thanks!

[@marieradatsz4126]

I have one electric kettle one of the first made I keep the old patina as it is in keeping with the age of the kettle. I was very blessed as my friend gifted it to me xxx

[@jeanieturner875]

I love your copper. I thinks it makes a home feel really cozy

[@Metalmuse_]

Bar Keepers friend is a direct gift from god.

[@pollyporter-campbell7493]

I recently sold 2 pieces that you would have loved: a long brass handled colander and a long handled "pot" with a rounded bottom. I found them in my neighborhood on trash day! The things that people throw away amazes me.

[@nancymccarthy4297]

Your collection is pretty and makes your kitchen homey!

[@angelakimov384]

Love copper, brass, and oil rubbed steel. This video was my vibe 👍🤩 thanks for sharing!

[@denisedelgado3350]

You could definitely use the double boiler, have you? I agree, I like pieces with more of a patina as well. You’re blessed to have your Grandfather’s tea kettles 💞

[@donnaketz6542]

Andrea, love your copper collection. Thanks for the magnet tip. Another way to clean copper is equal parts salt and flour, then mix in a little vinegar to form a paste.

[@cherylmiller2334]

Loved this vlog Andrea! I have a large copper planter with brass legs and handles! I've had it for 35 years. I bought it new at a copper store in Louisiana. So, you've taught me it must be real as it has green patina on it! I'm definitely going to try & clean it with lemon & salt. Thanks for being so sweet & helpful! Hope you're feeling better, my friend! 🤗

[@joycemyrick7053]

I have the same double boiler it has the lid to. Luv my copper

[@gracev2335]

I purchased a rather large copper oval basin at an antique store 25 years ago which I display above an armoire with blankets and such. It’s heavy. I love your copper pieces. You have reignited my interest in collecting copper so I will be sure to be on the look out now. thank you!

[@emmapoe2746]

Good morning Andrea, that is a Beautiful copper piece! I do own several pieces I have a beautiful tea set from my mother-in-law has a tray the kettle a sugar and a creamer and I simply love it treasures that are hard to find. Have a blessed day

[@jeanmcbride5629]

I had a nice collection of copper tea kettles but I was down-sizing so I got rid of most of the newer ones. I still have some copper planters (one is perfect for a small Christmas tree) & 2 large copper boilers. One has a lid, one doesn't. I used one to hold wood for the fireplace & one to hold mail & paper that will be shredded or recycled.

[@denisevalentemcgee4802]

Hi Andrea! My mother had some copper pieces....I think I have a couple of them (my sister took the teakettle (darn! LOL) I think it was pretty popular maybe 50 years ago or so, but it really is timeless and seems to be making a comeback. I love copper in the Fall....it fits in well with those warm tones during that time of the year. I'd love a colander, a tea kettle and one of those Turkish coffee pots. We really don't have too much available as far as antique stores around where I live, but you never know when you may come across something. Those small copper dishes you just found the other day for instance.Thanks for sharing.

[@glendalafont1561]

I use lemon and salt and it is cleaned almost instantly. I love your collection of copper and you are lucky, where I live it is very expensive. You have a diverse collection and I am envious.

[@ruthgoddard6539]

I love your collection. I also have a collection. I live copper in my kitchen. It is so pretty.you have some good pieces

[@rozchristopherson648]

Thank you for this video. 🧡

[@peggyhiggins4849]

Luv ur copper. I received my moms copper jello molds when she passed and u have inspired me to get them out and display them. I’m so excited. I live in a rustic home and am incorporating blues/grays/copper in my kitchen/living /dining. Thank u!!

[@karenworks2491]

I love your channel!! Your way of styling is beautiful. The way you style your copper looks so pretty and is beautiful in your 🏠.

[@judyshallstrom415]

You can have the tin restored. I purchased old copper in Europe. Some very old and some newer, all heavy. But so is my other cookware. I use most of it frequently. I use the dregs of home made tomato sauce to clean when I have some. Haven't tried lemon juice, but will.

[@donig7337]

I use Brasso sold to clean my copper including my copper sink!

[@dianaadhdchannel]

Oooh that’s a great copper find👌

[@rachellebrooke4614]

I love all the pieces! I’ve always copper!

[@karellarsen939]

I love your copper pans! They look beautiful in your kitchen!! ❤️❤️

[@celineloeffler1909]

I’m surprised that no one uses Twinkle to clean their copper. I have been using it since the early eighties and it’s lovely and fast, and does not wear away the copper. I use it almost everyday on the revere ware that I cook with. I personally love the pink glow of freshly cleaned copper.

[@christinajohnson4342]

Thanks for the magnet tip, Andrea. I love copper and have amassed quite a few pieces but I wasn't sure if they "real" because I have thrifted most of them. My husband and I tested them right away and each one was authentic. Thanks again.

[@jenniferdahl4010]

Thank you for the tip about the magnet. I recently bought at the thrift store a copper candle holder that is very unusual. It's very tall in that it has this frame with a handle that surrounds the shade and you can lift it to then light the candle. At the top of the frame it has a hoop to maybe be able to hang it? Anyway, magnet does not stick anywhere. It's tarnished with a lovely patina but no green. Maybe it was taken care of. The shade has some wobbling to it instead of completely smooth in the light so maybe old. Not sure and it doesn't matter, I love it. Also picked some copper look oil lanterns. Love real flame.

[@patriciapartch5617]

Great copper collection. I have a few pieces of copper, I have the double boiler, a ice bucket, a large pitcher and the strainer. Your collection is so unique. I don’t clean my now but I have in the past. I hope you are doing well. ❤️

[@lesliepowell6471]

You have inspired me! As usual!!! Love all if your items. Great info thank you!! See you soon!

[@annehostettler134]

Toujours un plaisir de vous suivre dans vos vidéos ! merci

[@teeser2436]

Beautiful pieces .Great video.❤️

[@yolandamarshall872]

Love all your pieces. They add so much charm and character to a kitchen. Tfs your knowledge and cleaning tips❣️

[@decorbee]

Beautiful copper collection ..I’m just starting mine lol thank you for sharing:)

[@jewish69ify]

Oh my gosh...I love watching your copper collection grow! I inherited a few pieces when my grandmother passed away and I LOVE them.

[@PineandProspectHome]

Thank you so much, and yes! Aren't they SO beautiful?!

[@rachellebrooke4614]

How precious!

[@robertbaker9775]

Such a fun video! I love seeing your copper collection and hearing the stories behind your pieces. Thank you for your cleaning tips. Now about to look for a magnet and test my pieces! Happy baby, Andrea, I'm thrilled with your exciting news❣️ Linda

[@martiknapp762]

Thank you so much for sharing all of that. I only have a few pieces and really had no knowledge about what I own. They sure do make a kitchen look pretty!

[@carolynlunel9382]

I have in my copper collection a teapot from Sweden with the maker's mark etc. My mom bought it decades ago when it was 75 years old from an old woman selling her things. At that time I was 9 years old and now am 68 lol so it's old! I have another huge copper tub that my mom put on the fireplace hearth with wood in it. So these both have special memories to me. Anyway..sorry so long..but I'd advise you if you are cleaning your copper to order a copper cream. There are a few on Amazon. The Barkeeper's Friend may be easy but anything abrasive will erase the natural fine scratches that make the patina. I do not intend to be mean. Please understand I'm just offering a safer way to clean your treasures. Maybe it's because I'm old but I just had to say something. Your collection is beautiful and the copper polish won't be as abrasive. Congrats on your pregnancy! You're glowing❤ xo

[@jaynebrown693]

Carolyn- love your story! How wonderful to have those pieces from your Mom! I love the warmth of copper. I have a cooper mug that was given to my husband as a groomsman’s gift from my brother’s Wedding 30 years ago! And 3 copper pumpkins from Kirkland’s 3 years ago! Nothing as wonderful as what you have written about. LOL! But I do look for it at Auctions and with Antique Dealers all around us...I’m outbid 🙁 I have to really want something and have a place for it to spend what they are asking. Love Andrea’s collections and love how she has it displayed in her home!

[@carolynlunel9382]

Me,too, Jayne! I love her gorgeous home!!! Yes that teapot is precious to me. I remember the day my mom came home with it! Funny, huh? So many years ago. ❤

[@carolynlunel9382]

I love that you have your mug still!! Precious!!! Take care and stay well.. and warm! Xo

[@PineandProspectHome]

Sounds like such beautiful pieces! Thank you for the sweet words and cleaning tips as well!

[@carolynlunel9382]

@@PineandProspectHome ,❤❤

[@dorothyc7395]

I nearly ruined my copper kettle cleaning it with ketchup (the kettle was originally my grandma's so I know it's victorian and genuine copper) I always use Magic Wadding (I'm not sure they sell that in America) and my kettle shines up a treat.

[@jaket.9193]

I scored a huge stock of brass handle revere ware pots and pans from goodwill yesterday. About $8 each

[@carolyost6733]

Never really had anything cooper but my FAVORITE pan of all time was my Paul Revere pan that had a copper bottom. I LOVED THAT PAN UNTIL IT BOILED DRY WITH SOMETHING AND WAS RUINED. SAD DAY!

[@sherry1674w]

I really like the Double Boiler! Awesome. I have Copper Large Tea Pot like you have and was going to sell it, BUT, I have decided to keep it. Thanks for sharing.

[@jbellbird9050]

Lovely copper collection and I really love the pitcher. I'm not good around strong chemicals, so will try your suggestion of lemon and salt on my copper pieces.

[@bluesky7226]

My mother used lemon and salt to clean her copper. I found a neat piece at an estate sale this past summer.

[@twnll]

The double boiler - bain marie

[@dearprudence9273]

Lovely collection! Dont know if you've seen Escape to the Chateau on HGTV, but they take all their old copper pots (which they do cook with) to have them re-tinned by a local artisan. No idea what that would cost here in the states.

[@annyoung1579]

You have some Home Interior pieces, They were made for decoration and were only attaniable if you had a home party! I had a set years ago, Three pieces . One a dipper one a skimmer ant one looked kind of like a frying pan. They have black handles.

[@tinasteen7643]

I have those also!

[@jeanmcbride5629]

I had them too. Loved them.

[@abiering]

Great info on copper - especially how to tell difference between very old and newer antique. TFS. Andrea what would you call your home style?

[@krclinton]

My mother had a set of copper bottomed pots and she cleaned them with a specific copper cleaning paste. Sorry I don’t remember the name of it.

[@cameliafranco4497]

Awesome finds!! by the way Andrea can you show us how to clean copper or what's the best products to use🤗

[@PineandProspectHome]

I do share some tips at the end of the video and also have them written out on my blog! pineandprospecthome.com 😊

[@janetstevenson8521]

Your pot with the ceramic liner is a bain marie I believe.

[@heatherwhite2788]

The planter is from the 80s/90s 😊

[@madhusanam9143]

There is a company in NJ that can re-tin so u can re use them

[@marybollinger8668]

To clean your copper use Brasso or Copper Cleaner on Amazon.

[@007Lehua]

Like you - I love copper and brass together. I have yet started collecting, but it’s one of my favorites. I’m trying to convince my husband that I need an oven made from the same materials. Lol! Once we’re done with quarantine, I plan on purchasing some pieces that I’ve seen not to long ago. I find pieces that have imperfections or dents, those pieces I tend to gravitate towards. Since it add more character to the pieces. Enjoyed your copper collection; especially the double boiler. 🤩 Stay safe and thank you for sharing.

[@user-on347RenWen]

Very cool. I like you.

[@shannalane8349]

Never cook in the tin-lined, aluminum-lined copper or nickel-lined (we know these leech harmful metals into the food). I, too, collect copper kitchen pieces but would never cook in them unless I knew for certain that the lining was stainless steel.

[@meliatortilla4625]

Have you tried tarnex? I got some to try and clean some bowls

[@donnap9263]

Do you use this vessels to prepare food?

[@emilydegrande1711]

I found copper craft guild pieces from the thrift store. Can’t seem to find too much about the company. Do you know anything about this type of copper?

[@bunkerman99]

I think you can get your copper pieces retinned 1 at a time and the cost would not be horrible. Your German skillet needs to be making your breakfast. Cheers.

[@imcharming72]

I use ketchup.

[@vickymae1]

👍💜

[@afolsom685]

You can have it re-tinned

[@houseonahill4893]

I use ketchup but the smell is so unpleasant.

[@cindyrae2605]

FYI: It's Julia Child instead of Julia Childs.

[@tariqhussain8121]

Hello mam how are you My name is Khan from Pakistan I am copper masters is the decorations pieces highly crops or work is my house you is already know ID about Look for numbers is is videos