Divolo liquid bitumen ageing patina

Give metal leaf and decorative details a dark, aged appearance with Divolo Bitume Liquido. This solvent-based patina made with natural gilsonite ranges from brown to greenish black. Use it over gold, silver or copper leaf and to bring out existing crackle lines.

Choose the volume

You receive one 125 ml, 250 ml or 1 l bottle. Choose a small bottle for samples and a few details, or a larger size for repeated patination work. Volume does not establish coverage: thinning, film thickness and the surface determine consumption. Metal leaf, tools and thinner are not included.

Colour strength and a sample area

The patina is ready to use. Neat, it gives a very dark, intense colour. Turpentine or white spirit produces lighter, graduated tones; do not thin with water. Linseed oil can slow drying and extend working time. Add only to a separate working portion so the rest of the bottle remains unchanged.

On a separate sample with the same metal leaf, compare three small areas: one without patina, one with neat patina and one with a small amount of thinner. Record the ratio and, after drying, assess colour, crackle accents and the effect on the existing finish before continuing.

Drying and combining finishes

Allow about 24 hours to dry at around 24 °C; film thickness, dilution and conditions affect the actual time. The patina is insoluble in water. Check compatibility with existing or subsequent finishes on your sample and let it dry thoroughly before the next stage.

Working safely

Danger. May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways. Causes serious eye irritation. Repeated exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking.

Work with good ventilation, suitable protective gloves, eye protection and protective clothing. Avoid skin and eye contact and wash after use. If swallowed, immediately call a poison centre or doctor; do not induce vomiting. If in eyes, rinse cautiously with water for several minutes, remove contact lenses if easy to do, and continue rinsing. Keep tightly closed, locked up and out of reach of children. Keep residues out of drains and dispose of product and packaging through local authorised collection.

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