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Easy Method For Rusting Metal To Look Old

One of my current projects is “refurbishing” my witch’s tripod. I started with turning a plastic cauldron into realistic looking cast iron. Next, I wanted to rust up some chain and a carabiner hook to hang my cauldron from the tripod. This process is super easy and requires only basic household supplies.

Supplies

  • Metal pieces
  • Container for soaking
  • Vinegar
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Table salt

Prepare the Metal

I ordered a double loop chain that was zinc plated and a carabiner that was stainless steel off Amazon, but you can get these anywhere…Wal-Mart, Home Depot, etc. I placed the metal pieces into a plastic container & poured vinegar all over them, covering the pieces. I let this soak most of the day. The vinegar helps speed up the rusting process.

After soaking, the vinegar will look really grungy. Pour the vinegar off. You’ll see that the metal now looks dingy instead of new and shiny.

Corrosion Process

Next, I poured hydrogen peroxide all over the metal then sprinkled a significant amount of salt over this. It will start foaming up and look orange. You might consider using gloves and safety glasses.

After a few hours I removed the metal from the mixture and layed it on cardboard to dry overnight. I used rubber gloves when handling the wet metal.

You can use metal chain for a number of props, Chain up a zombie or hang a cauldron.

If you liked this tutorial be sure to give me a thumbs up and leave me a comment below! Of course, I would love to hear from you also and see how your cauldron turned out! Please also check out my other tutorials on my Blog page!

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