Can you shine pewter

However, if it contains lead, after a period you will notice it start to blacken. On the other hand, you may want to purposely tarnish pewter to give it character. You can learn how to patinate brass , pewter, and silver easily. There are several mixtures you can use, but one of the most common is rubbing vinegar over the surface and letting it sit. Then, you just rinse off the vinegar. You are left with an antique-looking piece that is certain to impress your guests.

Since pewter is an alloy of tin and iron, it will not rust, but you may experience a bit of oxidation after a period. The quickest way to ruin your pewter products is to put them in the dishwasher. Pewter is an incredibly soft metal with a low melting point. The hot water in the dishwasher can warp the pewter pieces if you leave them for too long. Also, soaps that are alkaline, as well as acidic foods can also discolor pewter.

Just be sure that you know what kind of pewter you have so you can utilize the correct cleaning method to avoid further damaging the pewter. The easiest way to restore the finish on the pewter is to hand wash in a sink of warm, soapy water. To reduce the risk of the pieces warping while they are drying, stand them upright. This effective method for cleaning pewter and restoring its finish will keep your pewter pieces looking great without damaging them further.

If your pewter requires a bit more effort to restore its finish, you can use emery paper to restore the finish of the pieces. You can purchase fine grade emery paper at your local hardware store. However, this method may take a few applications to get your pewter looking like new. Pewter is a blend of metals that lends its unique quality to dishware, jewelry, and household decorations. Follow our tips and use the homemade cleaning and polishing solutions to keep your pewter items looking beautiful for years to come.

We hope you enjoyed learning how to clean pewter with simple ingredients and easy techniques. If you found the information in this article useful, please feel free to share it with everyone you know. We respect your privacy and take protecting it very seriously.

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Method 1. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Figure out the type of pewter you have. Different pewter requires different methods when it comes to polishing. Before you polish your pewter, figure out if it is polished pewter, satin pewter, or oxidized pewter.

It should already look somewhat polished prior to the cleaning and polishing process. Satin pewter will have a grainier finish than polished pewter. It is usually not shiny. Oxidized pewter has a darker finish. Products made from oxidized pewter look like antiques, and are darker in color. Oxidized pewter does not need to be polished. You only need to wash it. Select a cleaner. For the most part, you'll need to clean your pewter prior to polishing.

Usually, most types of pewter respond well to an all purpose metal cleaner, which you can find at most hardware stores. However, it may be a better idea to use mild dish soap and warm water. This is less taxing on the pewter. Check if your chosen cleaner can also be used as a polish, as this can save you some time. Try mixing a handmade cleaner. A handmade cleaner can also be used on most types of pewter. If you would prefer to use something handmade, you can use vinegar and white flour to make a handmade cleaner.

Stir the mixture until it forms a paste. Choose a quality pewter polish. You want to make sure the polish you use will not damage your pewter.

For the most part, you can use the same types of polish on all different kinds of pewter. Some pewter cleaners, such as Brasso, actually double as polishes, so if you go with a commercial cleaner check the label to see if you can save some money and also use it as a polish. Make your own polish. You can also try to make your own polish, if you would prefer. You'll need to purchase a material called "rottenstone," which you can buy online or at a hardware store.

You will also need boiled linseed oil, which you can also find online or at a hardware store. Allow the linseed oil to cool until it's cold enough that you can safely work with it. Add rottenstone to the mix and stir. Keep adding rottenstone until a thick paste is formed.

Once this paste cools, you can use it on all types of pewter. Method 2. Use mild dish soap, a store-bought cleaner, or a homemade cleaner to clean the pewter prior to polishing.

Before polishing your polished pewter, you'll want to clean it off. This will remove any lingering dirt and debris from the pewter. You can either use mild dish soap, your store bought cleaner, or a homemade cleaner to clean polished pewter.

All rights reserved. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Whether you're simply dusting or administering a full tarnish-removing shine, these steps can help you care for this soft, durable, and beautiful metal.

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