Do you love the look of antique cupboard handles and would like to know what you can do to your existing handles to achieve the antique look? Or have you stil yet to purchase them and wanting to find out how you can age unlacquered brass. 

1. The Handles 

Firstly, if you already have brass handles for your cabinets, you will need to check if they are lacquered or unlacquered. 

If your brass handles are unlacquered, you are in luck. The next steps will be easy.

However, most brass handles sold on the market are lacquered. If that is the case, you will need to remove the lacquer layer before anything further can be done to age your brass. 

Ideally being able to purchase the exact colour you wanted would be the perfect scenario. However, if you have trouble finding the colour you want, or if the price is an issue, we have a tip for you. Look for unlacquered brass instead of lacquered brass.

Once you have remove the lacquer layer on your existing handles or purchased your new unlacquered handles, it's time for the fun steps. 

2. Aging Brass

What you will need:

- Vinegar

- Salt

- A Bucket 

- A smaller container or object for your handles to sit on without touching the solution

Step 1: Pour the vinegar into the bucket

Step 2: Add a generous amount of salt

Step 3: Place the other tub/bowl/object inside the vinegar and salt container 

Step 4: Place your handles on top

Step 5: Close the lid and let the wait begin.

It usually takes a few hours for the brass to show patina. To avoid over-aging your handles, you should check in every hour until the look you want has been achieved.

What actually will age the brass here is the fume of the vinegar and salt solution. Many people apply this solution directly onto brass. This method works however it will create an uneven colourisation. Using fume will produce a more consistent finish and it's much easier to clean your handles once the process is done. 

There you have it, we hope this guide will assist in your renovation process.