Softening the Lacquer Finish
Brass-finished home decor is timeless.
- Lay out newspaper to protect the surface your are working on. Nail polish remover (acetone) removes many type finishes.
- Dampen -- do not soak -- the lint-free cloth in the nail polish remover.
- Rub the brass piece with the dampened cloth. (ref 1)
- Make sure to cover the entire area, including any crevices.
- Dampen and rub until the lacquer is dissolved.
- Use new cloths as the others get dirty.
Removing the Lacquer Finish
- Fill one bowl with hot water.
- Dampen another clean, lint-free cloth in the hot water. Again, do not soak the cloth, just dampen.
- Wipe down the brass piece, removing the softened lacquer.
- Use new cloths as the others get dirty.
- Allow the piece to air dry completely.
Creating the Faux Antique Finish
- Fill the second bowl with enough vinegar to cover the piece.
- Make sure the piece is dry.
- Saturate the paint brush with the vinegar.
- Brush the entire piece, making sure to get in crevices.
- Watch as the vinegar reacts with the brass, oxidizing into a faux antiqued look.
Things You Will Need - Newspaper
- Nail polish remover (enough to cover the whole piece)
- Lint-free cloths or towels
- 2 bowls
- Hot water
- Vinegar (enough to cover the whole piece)
- Paint brush
Tip
- You may buff the piece dry after removing the lacquer; however air drying is the preferred method.
