Removing blackening from brass

[Mike H]

Does anybody have a sure fire method for removing blackening from an old brass badge ?

I've tried a few things but I cant seem to shift it,its very stubborn.

[Luke H]

A factory black finish or just where brass has aged/stained black?

If former some sort of solvent e.g. acetone will be needed but the older it is the more stubborn it will be. For the latter a soak in vinegar. Then a gentle rub on the affected areas with a cotton bud should remove it.

Beware both methods will also remove any patina and leave it looking ‘new’ if left soaking for a long period.

[Mike H]

Factory black and it's very very stubborn.

[Luke H]

Yes, it often is unless it’s a more modern application/finish which usually come off easier.

A long soak in a solvent ought to do it followed by the cotton wool bud or potentially a firm brush or even toothpick if it’s still hanging on in there. Quite time consuming I’m afraid.

[Mike H]

I have plenty of time to sort it.
Lockdown gave me a chance to sort all the boards out and deal with split pins missing nuts etc etc.

[Keith Blakeman]

Originally Posted by Mike H

I have plenty of time to sort it.
Lockdown gave me a chance to sort all the boards out and deal with split pins missing nuts etc etc.

You could try a blow torch then dip it in something.

[KLR]

I have a number of blackened badges - some are quite clearly original blackened, but I have some that really look as though they have been 're blackened' but I'm not going to change them. Moreover I have some badges which have lost their blackening but I'm not going to blacken them (again) !


A curious thing, it's the integrity (? - it's late) of the original badge or use of.