Larry Mong's Method of Copper Oxide Finishing


I visited with Larry Mong. He's the King Of Copper Oxide (aka Copper Japan). It's a dark background with bright copper streaks running through it. He asked we share his method for achieving this finish. - Steve Cunningham

  1. Heavy copper plate the piece, and buff to a shine.
  2. Take clear lacquer, on a brush, and clear coat where you want your streaks. Larry uses a pinstripe brush.
  3. Mix 1 part Liver Of Sulfur, to 8 parts of water. Heat the mixture to 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
  4. Dip the parts in the mixture. The parts will turn dark very fast. When the parts are as black as you want, pull them out. Rinse with clear water.
  5. Hand polish the parts. Do not buff with a wheel, as it's too fast, and you'll buff through the darkened areas.
  6. Clear coat your parts.