Oxidizing my own wire

 Hey all my family thinks I am nuts as I have many jars with wire strung in them.  I have been oxidizing Brass wire and Copper Wire w/ Ammonia fumes and Sterling Silver wire with the hot hard boiled eggs.  this has been fun and allowed me to be more creative with the variety of oxidized wire.  I am curious if any of you are also doing this, Thanks Wanda

I've never used ammonia or hard boiled eggs Wanda.  I've oxidized finished pieces with liver of sulfur so that I don't mar the patina with any tools while I'm working on it and then I polish the high points leaving the recessed areas oxidized.  I have heard that hard boiled eggs work well over time, I like liver of sulfur because it's much faster. 

Pam

 Hey Pam, I had to use Liver of Sulfer in College and I rIemember the smell.  I have gotten more sensitive to chemicals over the years so this works well for me right not. Of course my family thinks I am nuts, especially my teenagers. Wanda

I can understand the smell sensitivity.  You're braver than I am just for playing with ammonia!  I can't stand the smell of it, and I avoid cleaning products that have it.  Bleach is the same.  I don't use it unless I absolutely have to, preferably with windows wide open.

It does smell Wanda, you're right, and I remember you saying something to that effect now that you mention it...    I do my oxidizing outside because of that.  Being sensitive to odors certainly is a concern!  Are the methods you're using working well?  I've never done those.

Pam

 Yes I do my set up and take apart outside, but the ammonia is very contained, you only need about 1/2 inch in the bottom of a jar.  It works really well for Brass and Copper.  It takes a couple of hours, Less if I remember to wash the metal in soap and water first. I am sure Liver of Sulphur is quicker and more commonly used,  I just like the idea that I can do this cheaply and anytime I need a certain type of wire oxidized without having to pick up any special supplies.  I am still home on this medical leave with time to experiment. Thanks Wanda

Sounds interesting, I think i will try next time