Thread: Bluing Recipie

Originally Posted by Mike Blue

Brian Vanspeybroeck is the gent's name. He's a good friend of mine and deserves the correct academic attribution for his methods.

I whole-heartedly agree Mike - credit where credit is due! I have done a bit of reading-up on Mr Vanspeybroek since seeing your post, and he sounds like a very interesting and capable guy!

In one thread on Sword Forum International from 2002 he talks about the use of vinegar on it's own to form a rust-resisting layer and the possibility of using it alongside some other chemicals: no doubt this was the beginning of the full-blown formula given above by Dllandry.

Great stuff.

Regards,
Neil

Brian pretty much scatched that recipe out of his own experience. He wanted a durable finish for sword fittings (iron or steel) that looked old but was quick and relatively easy to do. He's another swordsman who drifted into the making end. A very capable fellow.

Should the old blue be removed? or could this be done over whats left of the old blue?

I've got a really nice solingen blade with a bit of the blue missing?

thanks!

Kirk

Kirk: This method builds up layers of oxides to completely cover the surface you want to have covered. I have not ever had a piece done this way that did not require a couple runs through the solution.

Make sure the blade is completely free of oils/waxes before beginning. This includes fingerprints. Try the process and if there are some spots that can use a little more surface, repeat until the desired depth of finish is achieved.

Old bluing is simply the first layer if you want to think of it that way.