What copper to use for cladding?

[gearhead1]

Hi folks. I was wondering what copper would be best to use for cladding a mirror frame like this? I am thinking of making a pair of tables as well with tops of similar design. I don't plan on welding, as I want a sheetmetal look with ornate nails and such as function and effect along any seam or overlaps. I'm planning on applying over a plywood or OSB substrate too if that has any bearing...

I will be trying my hand at applying a patina to darken it from the bright orange to a subdued orange/brown/blue(?) mottled effect (Hopefully)

I can get 16 or 18 oz roofing grade copper through my employer...just wondering if that would be ideal, or is there is a better grade I should use?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated...

Thanks in advance,

Scotty

[Chaz]

What i use for such a thing (did a few) was as thin as i could for a couple reasons: Cheaper; easier to cut with a straight edge and utility knife. I also use the brass coated brads along the seam every 3/4". I think it is a great look.

Just my .02 worth.
Chaz

p.s. you might try a little accent repousse' on it for fun and unique-ness but cut it to fit afterwards.

[gearhead1]

Thanks Chaz, I was thinking the 16 oz was a little overkill...but maybe better for a table top??

Any idea on what the minimum thickness should be if I wanted to add a hammer finish or distress it somewhat for extra texture?

I like the idea of flatened wrinkles too.

Thanks again,

Scotty

[Chaz]

Really, any will work. Typically what ever you can get a good price on is what i use.

If I hammer it and want it flat - for wrinkles - I anneal it after the hammering, lay it on my work bench and hit it with the flat side of a 2x4. Might be a little unorthadox, but it works.

[butch foster]

Scotty - The mottled effect you're going for can be achieved with a torch. Although you can use a patina, try heating the copper up to a dull red then quench with a wet rag or mist it out of a spray bottle. If you are going to anneal before shaping, you'll get a mottled colors ranging from dark browns to reds with even some greens depending on the alloy. Play with a piece of scrap first.

Butch

[gearhead1]

Thanks agian guys....awesome work on your website Chaz!



I found a link on colouring copper for other newbs too.

http://www.copper.org/copperhome/DIY...u_process.html