Customer Reviews

AMACO Rub 'n Buff Wax Metallic Finish, Antique Gold, 0.5-Fluid Ounce

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I collect nutcrackers. The gold finish on one of my nutcrackers has started to chip off. I asked at the art department at the local college what I could use to repair the gold finish. I was told to use a rub on gold paint. It would repair the finish and give it a professional look.

I searched the Internet for this product and am thoroughly happy with it. It did exactly what it said it would do, and my nutcracker looks brand new. I put a small amount on my finger tip and applied it to the damaged area -- after a light sanding. A gentle buffing when it was dry created the satiny finish I wanted. It was easy to use and cleaned up in a jiffy. No mess, no smell. It can also be applied with a brush in intricate designs or small spaces.

This is an easy product to recommend. Perfect for a crafter or artist.

I purchased this item due to a high priced designer recommending it to change my silver wood frames to gold. I was hesitant since I paid several hundred dollars for the frames but my only other alternative was to replace the entire frame at a frame shop at several hundred dollars more. So, with little instruction from the designer, I went to work. At my surprise, it was super simple, looks fantastic and definitely a professional appearance. My only recommendation is to wear gloves, preferrably surgical and apply the thick buff to a board, spread somewhat evenly on a cloth before applying. In other words, it comes out in a thick log, similar to toothpaste. If you apply it that way, it spreads on heavy which is not always the best way to apply. Start with a small amount for a less clumpy look. Tube is small but goes a loooonnngg way...one tube covered two frames 4' x 4' with 1/2 a tube left over.

I've changed my rating from 1 star to 3. The product caps do crack and the product does dry out as described in my original review. However, I tried the recommendation made by Amaco and added a few drops of turpentine to some dried-out product, and it seems that it does reconstitute. I cut the tubes open with a knife, and dug out a small amount of the dried product, added a drop or two of turpentine, and blended it with small palette knife on a piece of plate-glass. I don't plan to reconstitute an entire tube-full, but just what I need before a job. I'll keep the opened tubes in separate zip-lock bags so the colors don't mix.
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This review applies to all colors of rub n buff. I repair antique and vintage items**, such as picture frames, and use several products to help restore faded and damaged finishes. I find Rub n Buff to be an easy to use product when highlighting an area or providing some "depth" to frames that have been painted. In terms of usefulness, I would give this product 3 stars...HOWEVER, I am giving it one star because without exception, the shelf life of these tubes is very poor once opened. The problem is that (1) the caps CRACK or SPLIT once the tube is open (and recapped) and (2) the product then dries out. Of the 10 or so tubes I have, 7 have this problem and have to be thrown out--even though I might have used the product only one time some months ago. The 3 tubes that don't have this problem (yet) are unopened! I've tried sealing the tubes in air-tight plastic bags, sealing the tube openings with plastic wrap (using rubber bands and/or tape to create an air-tight seal ... but the tubes always dry out. I did not over-tighten the caps.

I contacted the Amaco and sent them pictures, but they wanted me to send the bad tubes to them, and then they would determine whether they are more than 2 years old ... if so, they presumably would not replace them. The problem has nothing to do with the products being 2 years old or not ... there is a problem with cracking caps. For all I know the tubes were hanging at the retailers for two years before I even purchased them. I have all sorts of polishes, adhesives, stains, finishes, lubrication, etc. -- many over 2 years old, and none of these products exhibit this cracking cap problem.

I wish there were a way to attach some photos to this review, but I don't think there's a way. I would share with you the pictures that I sent Amaco.

** I wouldn't use this product on a true antique or valuable item...there are better ways to make small repairs. (E.g., mixing a small amount of "bronzing powder" with shellac, varnish, etc.) You may need to do a Google search to find these powders since they are used for furniture refinishing / repairs.

Since posting this I received an email from Amaco saying that taking the dried out rub n buff and adding a few drops of turpentine will reconstitute it. Keep the mixture in a tightly closed jar. I will try that ... before throwing away the 7 tubes.

It's great. I'm so glad to find it. And you were so very prompt. I really appreciate your service.

I love this stuff. Can't believe how effortless it is to apply.So far I used it to change my lamps from bronze to gold. Using the gold leaf colored rub n buff. Works like magic.

Takes so little! This tube goes a long way! Exactly what I wanted! Could not ask for an easier process! When I need more, I will definately guy again! http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013KTZ6Q/ref=cm_cr_rev_prod_img

I couldn't tell how dark the color was by the name "Spanish copper." It was almost black and not a copper color at all. If it had a clear color guide I definitely wouldn't have purchased it. I found out the hard way. Won't do that again.

I liked the product, but it was rather spendy...