Restoring An Old Mirror
We all love with an antique mirror: the charm … of Versailles! But it seems that is a bit off. Back to make it perfect!
Find a free glass patches
Do the spots look like little constellations your mirror? We say that the crystal has been stung, because over time the mercury damaged. But do not worry because you will again have a mirror smooth, even by special paints.
This system is also designed to remove the cracks that can cause the shock of a hectic move.
- Working backwards. Put the mirror down on a cloth or a soft surface to protect it.
- Sand paper gently. Help yourself to a small wheel or very fine sandpaper. Rub the damaged parts to remove excess mercury.
- Remove dust from surface with a soft cloth.
- Apply for the treated and with the help of a silver powder brush or special silver paint for glass. Get a beautiful mirror but obviously you can not admire in the painting …
Important: Use this method of little mirrors. If they are ancient and valuable, it is preferable to take them to a skilled craftsman.
Make the golden shine again
The gold can be stained or aging over time.
It begins dusting the frame with a soft cloth before passing a sponge soaked in a little soapy water or ammonia. Do not forget the dirt that accumulates on the moldings. Clean them with a toothbrush with soft bristles and used or with some buds.
Now you can identify the true spots. To remove them, only one method: the grandmother. Use an onion and spread on the brush to give her little touches on areas of the frame you want to clean. Finally, wipe them with a soft cloth.
To finish, make the gold shine again, beat two egg whites until stiff with half a teaspoon of bleach. Apply the mixture with a brush and dry with a soft clean cloth.
Important: This method is perfect for painted frames, but if it is a gilded with gold foil, it works better than a professional.
Restore a framework
Over time frame may suffer some damage:
In this case, fill holes and cracks with wood putty or paste. Removes the excess with a knife, is great for the folds between moldings. If necessary, use fine sandpaper wrapped around a pen to try to corner.
Take away the dust and apply a varnish or paint the same color, or wax gold, paying close attention not to leave stains on the trim excess.
Comb-frame with a brush to put the finishing touches.
Important: If you want to keep old or tarnished appearance typical of old paintings, patina paint dry with a cloth. For pictures golden egg whites used diluted vinegar and apply with a brush. Let dry and clean the frame with a cotton swab.