Living surfaces: how brass and copper change over time

Part of the beauty of patinated brass and copper is that they never stand still. The colours and textures we create by hand in our North Devon workshop are the start of a story, not the end of one.

Why metal changes

Brass and copper react with their surroundings: the air, moisture, heat and the oils from our hands. That reaction is what creates a patina in the first place, and it carries on gently after your panel is fitted. How quickly depends on where the panel lives and how it's finished.

What speeds it up

• Frequent washing. A splashback behind a busy hob will change faster than a wardrobe door.
• Acidic liquids. Vinegar or fruit juice can lift the patina, so wipe spills up as soon as you can.
• Heat. Always use a trivet or placemat under hot pans; heat can warp the metal.
• Iron. Cast-iron pans can react with brass and copper, so don't set them directly on the surface.

What slows it down

Lacquer significantly delays further development, which is why most of our finishes are lacquered as standard. Oiled and waxed panels change more, and a light coat of Jade Oil or a microcrystalline wax, buffed with a soft cloth, will help protect them.

Good to know

Copper is naturally antibacterial: most common bacteria can't survive on it for more than a few hours, and brass has some antibacterial action too.

Read our full care and cleaning guide, or order a sample to see a finish in your own light.