Patina is a natural process that, with time, changes the appearance of some metals like bronze and copper, especially if the metal is exposed to outdoor elements. A patina takes to achieve, and you do not have the capability to control the outcome. But you can create the appearance yourself using a patina finish that is faux. The best part is you don’t actually need to have metal to create a faux patina; any paintable object is subject to get a treatment that is faux. Paint a foundation shade that is bronze then give it a patina with tinted glaze.

Wipe the job piece thoroughly with household cleaner and a sponge. Allow it to dry.

Sand the job surface — for instance, a tabletop — enough to open the finish up. This step makes it receptive to primer. Wipe away dust with a soft cloth.

Cover of the job that you don’t wish to paint with strips of tape.

Cover with newspaper and place the job piece atop the paper.

Pour latex primer into a paint tray. Dip a brush into the primer and then cover the job piece using slightly overlapping strokes. Permit the primer to dry. If needed, apply another coat of primer and allow it to dry.

Pour some of this base paint color — bronze — right into a paint tray. Apply bronze paint to the job piece using a paintbrush, using smooth strokes. Permit the paint to dry. Apply another coat if the primer is still visible through the paint.

Pour a few of this dark or dark paint. Add clear latex glaze, stirring with a stir stick, using the proportions urged on the glaze container, or create your own blend. The more glaze you use, the more translucent the patina effect.

Dab a rag into the glaze mixture, then blot it over regions including particulars that are indented or carved. If the surface is big, brush the glaze on thinly and randomly instead, working in small areas at a time. Rub the glaze around with all the rag to spread and eliminate some of patina, if desired, or make it slightly blotchy, brushing gently with a dry paintbrush to soften the appearance. Allow the glaze to dry.

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