FAQ

The Silver Plating Solution is formulated to achieve optimal results with copper, brass, or bronze as the base metal. These metals have a long history of being used for silver-plated items, ensuring a strong bond between the silver and the base.

However, it's important to note that the solution won't not work on items with a lead, tin, or other base metals with low copper content. For example, Britannia Metal (pewter), a popular 19th-century alloy composed of 92% tin, 6% antimony, and only 2% copper, here, the silver plating solution would not function properly.

It's safe to use on articles such as trays, plates, teapots and cutlery because the silver plating bonds securely and shouldn't flake off.

Here's a tip: After using the solution, wash your cutlery to remove any leftover liquid. It's safe to use again after that – although the solution itself might not taste the best (it's non-toxic and water-based, but best left untasted!).

Just a heads-up: Wearing gloves is recommended. Pure silver can temporarily turn your skin brown when it comes in contact, it's harmless (it even happens to us during demonstrations!).

• Ideal choices: Brass, copper, and bronze offer the best results with the Silver Plating Solution. These metals have traditionally been used for silver-plated items, ensuring a strong bond with the silver plating.
• Nickel with a caveat: Unpassivated nickel can also be plated with the solution. However, if the nickel surface is passivated (meaning it has a thin oxide layer that reduces its reactivity), you'll need to prepare the surface by scrubbing it with rouge first. This removes the passivation layer and allows the silver plating solution to adhere properly.

EPNS Compatibility:

• The nickel layer in EPNS can sometimes be passivated (oxidized), meaning the Silver Plating Solution won't adhere directly. Our estimate is that around 80-90% of EPNS items fall into this category.

Solution:

• Removing Passivation: The good news is that you can use rouge to remove the passivation layer from the nickel on your EPNS item. This will allow the Silver Plating Solution to bond properly.

• Thin Layer of Silver: This solution applies a single, thin layer of silver plating to compatible metals like brass, copper, bronze, and unpassivated nickel.
• Repair, Not Enhancement: It's important to note that this solution is designed for repair, not thickening. It won't plate onto existing silver or increase the thickness of existing silver plating.
• Rescuing Worn Silver: However, it can effectively restore worn silver-plated items where the base metal is peeking through.

Factors Affecting Peeling:

• Base Metal: The solution works best with copper, brass, or bronze. These metals create a strong bond with the silver plating, minimizing the risk of peeling. Using the solution on lead, tin, or low copper content metals may increase the risk.
• Surface Preparation: Thorough cleaning is crucial. We recommend using a degreaser to remove any dirt, grease, or oxidation that can weaken the bond.
• Application Process: Following the instructions carefully is essential. This includes using the recommended immersion times and application methods.

Minimizing Peeling:

• Ensure your base metal is compatible (copper, brass, bronze, or unpassivated nickel).
• Follow the cleaning and application instructions provided.
• If you're unsure about your base metal or have concerns, consult a professional plater for advice.

Durable Yet Gentle Care:

The silver plating is highly durable, forming a permanent chemical bond with the base metal. This means it won't peel or flake off over time, making it safe for everyday use on teapots, serving pieces, and other frequently handled items.

For long-lasting shine, avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh scrubbing. We recommend using our Silver Maintenance Solution for gentle cleaning and maintaining the luster of your silver.

Silver Plating Solution Not Working? Here's Why

The Silver Plating Solution is designed to work best with direct contact on specific base metals: brass, copper, bronze, and unpassivated nickel. If you're not getting the desired results, here are some reasons why:

• Base Metal Compatibility: Double-check the base metal of your item. Lead, tin, Britannia metal (pewter), or other low copper content metals won't work well with the solution. You can consult a professional for help identifying the base metal.
• Lacquer Coating: Some items might have a lacquer layer applied to prevent tarnishing. The Silver Plating Solution won't bond to lacquer and needs direct contact with the metal surface.
• Passivation (Nickel Only): If you're plating nickel, ensure it's unpassivated. Passivation is a thin oxide layer that reduces reactivity. You might need to use rouge to remove the passivation layer before using the solution on nickel.
• Solution Functionality: To rule out a solution issue, test it on a clean copper coin following the instructions. If it doesn't plate the copper coin, you might need to replace the solution.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Surface Preparation: Always ensure the surface is cleaned and free of dirt, grease, or oxidation before applying the solution.
• Application Process: Follow the instructions carefully, the solution needs to be rubbed onto the surface

Occasionally, there is a partial pitting/pin-prick holes on the lacquer surface which causes the silver to be exposed to the atmosphere. As a result tarnish occurs beneath the lacquer. The Silver Plating Solution would not work in this instance as it needs direct metal contact to bond the silver onto the base metal (it will not bond to lacquer)

The final appearance of your silver plating depends largely on the condition of the base metal. Here's why:

• Dull Base Metal = Dull Finish: If the underlying metal is already dull or tarnished, the silver plating will likely reflect that dullness.
• Cleaning is Key: For a bright and shiny silver finish, thorough cleaning of the base metal before applying the Silver Plating Solution is crucial.

Recommendation:

We recommend following the cleaning instructions provided with the Silver Plating Solution to ensure a clean and shiny surface for optimal results. This will allow the silver plating to achieve its full potential for a beautiful, reflective finish.

The Silver Plating Solution works best when applied directly to the metal surface using a rubbing action. Simply dipping the item won't achieve the desired results.

Here's how to apply it correctly:

1. Follow the instructions: Refer to the specific instructions provided with your Silver Plating Solution for detailed application steps and recommended application time.
2. Use cotton wool: Apply a liberal amount of the solution to clean cotton wool.
3. Rubbing action: Gently but firmly rub the cotton wool with the solution onto the metal surface you want to plate.

By using a rubbing motion, you ensure the solution makes good contact with the metal, promoting a stronger bond for the silver plating.