i want to turn metal to a rust color for crafts. How can i do this,quickly and inexspensive?

Answer 1

Two ways come to mind which will work if the metal in question is iron. These were used for science projects, but you will have to keep a close eye to prevent the metal from over rusting, if they work. These tricks will not work on stainless steel, or aluminum.

Try to submerge the iron in bleach. (Keep your child away from the bleach while doing this.) A glass (Important! don't use plastic) mayonnaise jar will do nicely if your child wants to watch. But place it so it can be seen but not spilled.

When I was a child, nails were rusted sucessfully in a very short time for science projects by submerging in Tide solution. I am not sure if this still works since Tide has been phosphate free for so long.

Answer 2

You didn't say whether you wanted it to be actual rust, or just look like rust, or how long you want it to last. If the material is steel or iron, leaving it outside for awhile should do the trick; a little salt water will accelerate the process. Unfortunately, you would have to remove the patina of rust to prevent the metal from corroding away entirely. If the material isn't steel or iron, or you just want the look of rust, or you want it to last, I suggest you look up on the net some pics of rusted steel/iron, get a set of matte paints that includes grays & browns, and try to reproduce the effect, going for a rough texture.

Answer 3

Depending on what kind of metal it is will determine if it will rust or not. Quick and inexpensive = spray paint.

Answer 4

Spray with salt water and place in the oven on low heat.

Answer 5

leave it in the rain and put salt on it. you may want to put it in some water with salt in it keep it cold and it will be rusted in no time.

Answer 6

Buy some steel wool and place in water.

Answer 7

dip it in salt water