If you love every bit of the coppery bronze patina of weathered Corten steel planters, but could do without the time of nature to transform your Corten steel, you might want to give it a boost. This process delivers great results.
Step 1: Gather ingredients:
You will need the following to begin making the rusting concentrate:
- 16 oz. Hydrogen Peroxide
- 2 oz. White Vinegar
- 1/2 Tablespoon salt
- Sprayer (dedicated spray bottle or weed sprayer)
- Gloves
Step 2: Making the rusting concentrate.
With gloves on, mix the peroxide, vinegar and salt in a weed sprayer or larger spray bottle. Gently shake the mixture to mix. Your rusting slurring is now ready for application.
Step 3: Applying the rusting slurry.
Take care in selecting an appropriate area to spray your planter outside, as the the slurry may drip from the steel onto the surface beneath. Set your sprayer to a fine mist, and begin to spray the surface of your planter. Avoid heavily coating the planter causing excessive dripping. Spray the planter thoroughly, applying 1-2 coats daily for 3-5 days. In very little time, your planter will appear with a bright rust and continue to soften to bronze and brown hues.