Thread: Rusty Nails

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Does anyone know how to quickly rust nails?

I use rust colored spray paint.

Make sure the nails are iron if you want them to rust. If you just leave them outside in a basin with a shallow layer of water they should rust very quickly.

Modern Masters paint (same makers of WildFire paint) makes a kit to rust things fast: http://www.o-geepaint.com/Faux/metals.shtml

Here's the instructions which sound nifty:

RUST FINISHES

Metal Effects Iron Paint water base metallic paints contains real iron particles. This paint may tarnish naturally over time when exposed to the elements. Metal Effects Rust Activator is used over the Iron Paint. This combination will will create a real weathered rust finish. Ideal for use on properly prepared metal, wood, plaster, canvas, paper and most plastic surfaces.

SURFACE PREPARATION
All Surfaces should be sound, clean and dry prior to priming. Remove all loose, peeling paint. Scuff sand glossy surfaces. Apply 2 coats of Metal Effects Acid Blocking Primer (wait approx. 1/2 hour between coats) with a brush or roller appropriate for water base primers. To spray apply, use airless or HVLP spray equipment. DO NOT THIN Allow Primer to dry 12 hours minimum.

STEP 1
Apply 2 coats of Iron Paint with a brush, roller or HVLP spray gun (to spray add up to 20 fluid ounces of water per gallon) and allow to dry (approx. 1/2 hour). Apply a second coat of Iron Paint in the same manner. Allow to dry approx. 1 hour.

STEP 2
The Rust Activator should be applied with brush, sea sponge or spray apply. After 5 minutes reapply Rust Activator. Allow activated surface to dry. As the surface dries, a real weathered rust finish will appear. Cold temperatures and/or humid conditions will prolong the oxidation process and dry time.

i think salt helps

I found this while searching:


"Electrolysis of Iron
•You can also use electricity to make rust. Fill a large container with 2 gal. of salt water (at least 2 tbsp. of salt). Attach the iron nail to the anode (positive terminal) of a battery with a long wire or cable. Attach another wire to the cathode. Submerge wires in the saltwater--make sure they don't touch.



A more powerful battery will work faster. Car batteries work well for this."


Read more: What Solution Will Rust Iron Nails the Fastest
http://www.ehow.co.uk/decision_68810...#ixzz0ycUllkui

Stick the nails in vinegar for a day or two. It will look like nothing's happening, but when you take them out, the nails will rust very quickly. The nice thing is, this doesn't seem to compromise the integrity of the metal (I mean, it must do so to some degree, but not that we've noticed under normal conditions).

Such different techniques; thanks for all the ideas!