My first attempt at a copper inlay on a steel knife handle went a weird, bubbly green color.

I heated the copper wire with my propane torch for about 30 seconds before pressing it into the pre-cut groove, and the oxidation created this strange patina instead of a clean bond, so what's the best way to prep the copper for a solid inlay?

3 comments

3 Comments

ryan_ellis1mo ago

Oh man, that green gunk is the worst. I bet the heat made a thick oxide layer that just won't stick. In my experience, you gotta clean the copper right before you heat it, like with a quick vinegar or citric acid dip, then dry it fast. The real trick is to use way less heat than you think, just enough to get it soft, not glowing. Try holding the torch farther back and watch for the color to change to a dull red, then press it in quick before that oxide forms.

paul34627d ago

Funny how that applies to a lot of stuff. Like cooking steak, everyone thinks you need screaming hot to sear it, but medium heat that lets the inside come up slow usually gives a better crust without burning the outside. Or even just painting a room, slapping wet paint on dry old paint without sanding first always peels. Results come from prepping the surface, not cranking the power.

felixramirez1mo ago

@ryan_ellis reminds me of the time my uncle tried to solder a pipe and accidentally melted his garden hose.