192K Views
How to Make Metal Rust With Potatoes
![Amy Ellis @ StowandTellU](https://cdn-fastly.hometalk.com/media/profile/2017/03/29/126261_2.jpg?size=91x91)
by
Amy Ellis @ StowandTellU
(IC: blogger)
I've been working on a project that required me to make some nails and hardware rusty. I wanted to go the easiest route (of course) so I tried the vinegar and salt method which I had used before, but it just wasn't happening fast enough, meanwhile, my husband was chopping potatoes for stew: lightbulb!
The metal started to turn dark immediately and after soaking for about an hour, I took them out and rust began to form.
The metal started to turn dark immediately and after soaking for about an hour, I took them out and rust began to form.
I let the potatoes oxidize for a while, then dropped them in a vinegar salt mixture.
I used standard nails - not zinc or galvanized
The rust really begins to form once exposed to air.
Enjoyed the project?
![Amy Ellis @ StowandTellU](https://cdn-fastly.hometalk.com/media/profile/2017/03/29/126261_2.jpg?size=91x91)
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Published March 21st, 2013 6:50 PM
Comments
Join the conversation
6 of 29 comments
-
Rainy Odessy on Sep 16, 2015
- See 1 previous
-
Amy Ellis @ StowandTellU on Oct 01, 2015
-
-
- See 1 previous
-
Judy L Watt on Jun 03, 2019
I thought Coke takes away rust?
-
Carolyn Bragg on Mar 30, 2020
Coke removes rust, given enough time. It will also completely dissolve a tooth. (See the Mythbusters tv show.)
-
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?