Copper Blog

Examples of Copper Patina Artwork

by: Crescent City Copper - Friday, September 30, 2011
Copper patina artwork makes use of traditional methods for making designs in finished copper. Generally, patina naturally forms on copper as it ages, but patina artists use artificial means to recreate this effect through a process known as "distressing", which is similar to the process of distressing clothing by giving it an artificially aged look. Most artists do this by adding  chemicals that cause surface corrosion on the copper. After the patina color has been created, artists can choose their preferred method of creating the design.

While some use abrasive methods such as scratching, others perform their art during the actual application of the patina color by sponging the chemicals on the copper in specific movements to create color pictures. At Crescent City Copper, customers can purchase various types of copper and brass wall art. Here are a few examples of copper patina artwork done by other patina artists around the world.



This is a perfect example of intricate patina design. In this piece, the artists applied the patina chemicals painstakingly, using actual plant materials in the process of making the artwork. The chemicals have been applied in light touches around the outside of the copper and in heavier doses in the middle, creating a mist-like effect around the pine tree branches. (Image c/o: Copperhand Studio)



This work by copper artist David Savedge is called "Great River". As you can see, the patina chemicals have been added in a specific design to form the image of a river flowing through banks of sand. The chemicals are layered thickly in the middle to create the bubbly texture of a river in motion. The sand banks have been lightly altered to give the brown color a little distress. (Image c/o: Copperhead Art)



This example of copper artwork is made with patina and heat-treated stainless steel. In this art, the image is that of a lake seen from a high vantage point. Again, the patina chemicals have been added carefully to keep the dimensions of the image intact. (Image c/o: Tough Tiny Welder)

Questions to Ask When Selecting a Copper Awning for Your Home

by: Crescent City Copper - Friday, September 16, 2011


Homeowners who want to add a special touch to their outdoor facade may consider buying a copper awning for their houses. Awnings have been used for years to add design and to provide shade for front porches, but copper awnings have several advantages over traditional fabric or wooden awnings.

For one thing, copper awnings last an incredibly long time. They are durable and they stand up to all types of weather conditions. They won't need replacing or polishing and they can be custom-sized to whatever suits the home best. Copper awnings also offer a unique look. While the metal starts out as a shiny, brass color, it turns to a flecked, faded green as it ages, giving the home a bit more character than before.

Before selecting a copper awning for your home, though, there are several considerations you'll need to take into account. For example, will the awning protect your home from rain? The straight answer is yes. Copper awnings are sure to keep the front of your house dry from rain and thunderstorms. What about protection from sun exposure? Again, yes. Copper awnings also provide shade from the sun, making them great places to sit under on a hot day.

What size awning should you get for your home? This largely depends on the look you're trying to achieve. Generally, you want to buy an awning that is large enough to shade your front entrance, but you may want to buy one a little larger than that if you're looking for an extended shade provider. Be careful not to buy an awning that overwhelms the look of your home.

What style of awning should you buy? Again, this depends on your personal taste and the look of your home as is. There are several architectural styles to choose from, including dome awnings, canopy awnings, standing seam awnings, wedge awnings, and textured awnings. The copper experts at Crescent City Copper manufacture all of these copper awning designs for residential use.

Copper Dryer Vents

by: Crescent City Copper - Friday, September 02, 2011


Dryer vents have an important job to do, as they're responsible for carrying lint and moist air outside of your home. However, there has been much speculation over the quality of dryer vents, as most homes continue to use the flexible plastic hoses that are not safe. These flexible hoses do not do an adequate job of pushing our moist air and lint and therefore can make people sick. Those with allergies and asthma conditions are more prone to these particles being in the home.

Not to worry, as there is another solution that more homes are taking advantage of: Copper dryer vents. Metal vents are what are recommended by dryer manufacturers, as these vents are most durable and reliable. Copper dryer vents from such companies as Crescent City Copper keep unwanted elements out of the home and expel hot air from the dryer. Best of all, copper dryer vents are a wonderful way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home, while offering peace of mind that your air is safer and healthier to breathe.

There are many different styles of copper vents that can be purchased, making it easy to find a match suitable for your home. Instead of having a plastic piece that is attached to the home, you can admire a copper vent that will blend in well with the unique architecture of your abode. Some copper vents stick out more than others, while some lay against the house and have a mesh-like screen. Talking with the manufacturer will help you determine the right fit for your home.

Here are the two most common types:

Slope Dryer Vents - These have clean lines and slopes and an overall modern appearance. They work well with any home.

Sweep Dryer Vents - These are more elaborate in design and have visible lines and details. They work best with Victorian homes.

Once a copper dryer vent is installed, you can rest assured that the piece will remain in tact for years. Unlike plastic dryer vents that crack and let particles leak into the home, copper ones will remain in one piece. And, you don't have to worry about the copper rusting like other types of metal. When the copper does age, it will do so gracefully and take on different colors of patina.

While copper dryer vents are most commonly used in place of plastic dryer vents, they can also be used in other areas where ventilation is needed such as in kitchens and bathrooms. Make your home healthier and more beautiful with a copper dryer vent.