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How to Rust Barbed Wire

Barbed wire has a few uses. It is made as a deterrent to keep people and animals in or out of a place. Most barbed wire is used for fencing, but barbed wire can also be used as part of art projects. Rusting the barbed wire gives it a unique look. Because the barbed wire is made from metal, it is not hard to rust.

Barbed wire, when rusted, can be used for art projects.

The secret is rusting the metal without hurting yourself.

  1. Put on thick gloves when handling the barbed wire to prevent cuts and other injuries.

  2. Scrub the barbed wire with a steel wool pad or scrubbing brush. This roughens the surface and also removes any rust-proof coating that is on the wire.

  3. Fill a large container or bucket with water. Add the barbed wire. Water is the most important ingredient for rusting metal.

  4. Add two to three tbsp. of salt to the water. A salt solution accelerates rusting.

  5. Leave the barbed wire in the saltwater for several hours.

  6. Remove the wire from the water, and place it on a surface covered with paper towels.

  7. Carry the barbed wire and paper towels outdoors into the sun. The heat accelerates the rusting. Make certain no children or animals can access the barbed wire.

  8. Repeat Steps 3 through 7 until you get the desired amount of rust on the barbed wire.