All photography by Christopher Keene
What is the Forced Patina process and what is involved in producing it it?
Procedure
Horn is completely disassembled including needle springs. All lacquer is chemically removed. If the instrument has any existing natural Patina on bare brass areas I generally will leave it. This is the effect I strive to produce on the entire horn. The Saxophone is then washed inside and out. At this point, dent work or additional repairs can be addressed per customer request for an additional fee. Patina is then forced by applying various chemicals in specific order, duration and temperature. The process is repeated until the desired look is obtained. Highlighting is then done to give the horn a natural appearance. All instruments will look somewhat different, however photos on this site give a good general example of what to expect. The look can be light tan to dark brown, also a green or red tint be forced over the tan or brown. These different affects can be requested but remember all horn Patinas will be an original just like the player. There is no motorized buffing involved in the process.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Horn with Patina work will be sent back with all key work and parts disassembled and bagged. Needle springs having been removed to facilitate work will be reinstalled loosely in the appropriate location. For an an addition charge I offer to replace all steel needle springs with new carbon steel blue springs. I feel spring replacement at this point is a good value. When horn is shipped to me for work it must be completely assembled with all parts present. My primary concern as is yours is that you get all of your parts back. By sending it in one piece there will be no question as to the completeness of the horn when sent to me for work. I work on one horn at a time and take great care to assure all components are returned to the customer.