Tips on Creating Contrast in Aluminum Metal Stamping Projects

I currently use an industrial Sharpie on Aluminum.  It will need to be baked at 260 degrees for one hour to set the marker.  But then it is permanent.

Another great product is Black Max, which is available

at Rio Grande Jewelry Supply.

It causes a chemical reaction

and is commonly used to create contrast in sterling.

Black Max works on Aluminum,

but 
BUT IS NOT AS DARK AS IT IS ON STERLING.


You'll need to be very careful

applying to just the areas you want to darken.

It can stain the aluminum and can be difficult to remove.

BLACK MAX IS BEST USED ON STERLING PMC, BRONZE AND COPPER.


Use a thin toothpick to apply the Black Max.

Once the Black Max has darkened the metal

wait about 10 minutes.

Rinse with water and then dry dab dry with a paper towel.

***Be very careful not to get the Black Max

near your eyes or on your skin.

It is an acid and will sting

any little cuts you may have on your hands.

If you make of jewelry this is very likely.

Now you can begin finishing your piece.

Tumble or hand polish.

When you're finished the impressions will be a dark gray on aluminum.

Not as black as sterling. But... it will be very permanent.

***Just a note on other processes for darkening aluminum:

Oil Paints used for painting pictures - but the drying time is at least one week.

NOTE - Apply darkening agents after your bracelet has been curved.

If you curve your cuff after you've darkened your piece you may have little slivers of metal that have been stretched that are not dark.

Let me know if you've experimented

with any other darkening agents for your aluminum projects?

I would love to share your results.

Enjoy creating!!!

Liz