We recently took a delivery of new-to-us tools. Bought second hand, some were in pristine condition and some were... not. Rusty and dirty, they didn't look promising but we knew we could bring them back to life. So how do you revive and derust steel silver smiths tools and get them ready for action again?
With many jewellery making tools made from steel they can easily rust if they aren't properly cared for. Whether they are your tools that have got a little neglected or something you have picked up second hand read our jewellery school guide on how to revamp your rusty tools and take care of them.
A note on health and safety: Nothing used in this process is hugely toxic but we recommend gloves, eye protection and definitely an apron as this can get pretty messy.
Step One : Remove the rust
Our favourite method is to use white or malt vinegar as it contains acetic acid and is an effective natural rust remover which can be applied in different ways depending on your item. The acid will eat through grease and dirt too so you don't need to clean items before you soak them.
Fill a plastic tub with vinegar and salt (this works as a catalyst) too if you like, and soak your item. This is great for small things or things with a thick rust layer.
Decant the vinegar into a spray bottle and spray onto the item
Soak a rag or paper towel in vinegar and wrap it around the piece.
In place of vinegar you could also use lemon juice, citric acid or bicarbonate of soda. Or mix up a paste combining them.
Let it sit for 30 mins for a light rust or overnight for heavy rust.
Commercial rust removers are available and work in a similar way. They are a bit more toxic and can require special care when disposing of the used solution.
Step Two: Refine the surface
Use sandpaper or a wire brush to scrub any remaining rust from the surface of your metal. This is messy so remember your PPE and protect your surfaces or work outside.
Step Three: Rinse and protect
Rinse off the vinegar solution and dry thoroughly. Cover the piece in a light layer of WD-40 or machine oil (we use 3 in 1 oil) to seal the surface and protect from further damage. If the surface is intricate, use an old tooth brush to work the oil into the details and then wipe off the excess.
Steel tools should always be kept oiled to protect them from damp or condensation, if your tools are rusting in your workshop then consider making changes to your workshop environment such as a dehumidifier. If your workspace is damp you can keep steel tool wrapped in oily rags or store them in sealed plastic boxes to protect them. Inspect them regularly so you can remove an rust spots as soon as they begin.
It's a time consuming and mucky job but so worth while. We've been able to begin playing and experimenting with the dies and other tools and we are looking forward to introducing them to the workshop and seeing what our students do with them.
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