Ok guys, here is a little trick I've been working on for a possible future application (I'll show when the time is right :)). I decided to practice with a blade of zero value to me just in case I needed to tweak things at all, so I used this chopped up Reynolds.
This is a basic forced patina using mustard and regular vinegar (I hope the pics show up ok, I only have my phone right now). New pics added
Note* This process works for carbon steel... stainless?? not so much.
Steps:
- Shined blade up with Maas to get a really good surface to work with
- Washed the entire surface with soap and water (and any additional degreaser you may need). Afterwards, I took care to NOT touch the steel with my bare hands in order to maintain an oil free surface.
- After thoroughly drying the steel, I used a bit of soft (almost melted) wax to cover only the edge. I wanted to see if it would effectively resist the patina for my future application. BTW, It did work... even if you can't see it in the pics.
- Next, I wet a paper towel with vinegar and wrapping it around the blade in a spiral.
- I used a toothpick to "paint" the stripes on the blade with regular yellow mustard.
- Waited about 40 mins or so and washed the blade off very well.
- Lightly oiled the steel after drying completely.
And here are the results... I don't know if you can tell (horrible pics:gaah:), but it's exactly what I was going for.
Attachment 47024
Attachment 47025
The dark black patina is where the outlines of the mustard stripes were, and the lighter grey areas are where the vinegar soaked paper towel was.
CAUTION - I have zero idea what this may do to an edge, so I wouldn't recommend trying this unless you DO know, or are willing to roll the dice.:gth
Anyway, I hope you got a kick out of this. I had fun anyway!
Dave