How do i............?

[Steve27752]

I have just replaced the female half of a brass (I think) press stud. The other press studs on the coat are a darker colour.
What can I use to darken the brass? I thought of vinegar, but then I thought it might lighten the colour.
If possible I do not want to replace the other ones.

 

[ged]

Don't use anything acid like vinegar, you'll leach out zinc from the brass and leave it copper-coloured.

Is the look that you're trying to achieve just a tarnished brass colour? If so, as long as the brass isn't coated with something (e.g. a clear laquer) then you will get that fairly quickly if you do nothing.

 

[Steve27752]

The studs came from 'Tatters' in a packet of about 10. I do not think they have a coating on, I just want too darken them.

 

[cheapeats]

Ammonia will turn brass black

 

[tartanferret]

If it wasnt attatched to the jacket, could you darken it by repeated heating? over a gas ring or something? probably wrong. Just a thought

 

[Steve27752]

Thanks for the tips. I will leave the ammonia as I just want to darken it, not turn it black. I will try heating and see what happens.

 

[lannyman8]

try tan boot polish if its just for looks, polish buff, polish buff, polish buff, till it goes browner...