Revelare’s Guide to Liquid Metal
In the world of high-end finishes, liquid metal is the alchemy that transforms ordinary surfaces into extraordinary focal points. This innovative coating technique combines the tactile richness of real metal with the versatility of paint, allowing designers to achieve luxurious metallic finishes on almost any object or interior element.
At Revelare, we approach this craft with meticulous attention, confident expertise and a passion for implementing one-of-a-kind ideas. Our team of artisan finishers collaborates closely with clients – including architects, interior designers, contractors and private clients – to bring their creative visions to life with reliability and finesse. Our liquid metal finishes imbue surfaces with timeless character while meeting the practical demands of modern design. In this guide, we explore what liquid metal is, its applications, characteristics and the possibilities it unlocks for your projects.
What is Liquid Metal?
Liquid metal is a term for a real metal coating in liquid form. Metal particles combine with specialised binders, and then the mixture can be sprayed or applied like paint. Once applied and cured, the coating is not a mere metallic paint effect, but a thin layer of actual metal bonded to the surface. This means a liquid metal-coated piece will exhibit qualities like the lustre and cool touch of metal, and it can oxidise (patina) over time just as an authentic metal object would.
How Can Liquid Metal Be Used?
The most exciting aspect of liquid metal finishes is their near-limitless design potential. Because the coating can be applied like a paint, it eliminates many constraints of traditional metal fabrication. Designers can create seamless metallic surfaces – for example, an entire feature wall or reception desk with no visible joints. Curved or intricate pieces that would normally require complex metalwork can instead be crafted in a more malleable material and then sprayed in liquid metal.
In practice, liquid metal has been used for everything from sleek modern interiors to antique-style accents. It’s ideal for creating metallic feature walls, panels or ceilings that make a statement in high-end residences or boutiques. Even furnishings can be elevated with a liquid metal finish – think of tables, consoles, or cabinetry gleaming in brass or bronze. Because the finish can mimic nearly any metal and any patina or polish, designers often use it to tie together disparate elements in a space with a unifying metallic thread.
What Substrate Can Liquid Metal Be Applied To?
At Revelare, we like to say: “If we can prime the substrate, we can apply liquid metal to it.” Wood, MDF, plaster, plastics, glass, concrete, ceramics, fibreglass. It’s all possible. We can even apply liquid metal to outdoor materials. With the right substrate and primer, liquid metal finishes can withstand exterior conditions.
What is the Lifespan of Liquid Metal?
Since liquid metal coatings are composed mostly of real metal powder bound in a tough resin, they create a hard surface that can withstand the rigours of time and use. Tests show that our high-quality liquid metal finishes have Taber abrasion resistance comparable to powder-coated metal, and can endure 25 to 30 years of exterior use without significant degradation.
How Thick Is a Typical Liquid Metal Coating?
One of the advantages of liquid metal is that it achieves its effect with very little material thickness. A typical liquid metal coating can be between 300-600 microns (0.3-0.6mm) once polished or finished. It’s a veneer of metal about as thick as a few sheets of paper, but still retaining its strong properties.
Can Liquid Metal Substrate Be Curved or Shaped?
Liquid metal coatings are very well-suited to curved and shaped surfaces. Since the metal is applied in a fluid state, it conforms to organic shapes, complex geometries and three-dimensional forms with ease.
What Environments Has Liquid Metal Been Used In?
A wide variety of environments, including home environments such as interior design, kitchens and bespoke furniture; commercial settings such as hospitality, architecture and visual merchandising; artistic settings such as film sets; and luxury environments such as yachts. Liquid metal brings a touch of luxury and creativity wherever applied.
What Maintenance Is Required for a Liquid Metal Finish?
Despite their high-end appearance, liquid metal finishes are relatively low-maintenance. Maintaining a liquid metal surface is similar to caring for any quality painted or plated surface, with regular dusting and gentle cleaning generally being all that’s needed to keep the surface looking its best.
Does Liquid Metal Change Colour or Patina Over Time?
Our liquid metal paint ages in the same way real metal would. By adding chemical patination, the surface will change colour over time, evolving with patina, tarnish or darkening. This effect is especially prevalent in metals like bronze, brass, copper and iron, which are prone to oxidation. For many, this natural evolution is part of the appeal: the finish develops character and a unique pattern of ageing that tells a story.
However, we are also able to preserve the original colour. By applying a clear protective topcoat, we effectively freeze the appearance in its original state. Our high-performance clearcoat will prevent oxygen, moisture and handling from affecting the metal surface, blocking any patina or colour change over time.
Is Liquid Metal Suitable for High-Traffic or High-Touch Areas?
Yes, liquid metal coatings are known for their robust wear resistance, which makes them suitable for surfaces that see frequent footfall or contact. We regularly use liquid metal for projects within the hospitality sector, including hotels.
What Customisation Options Are Available with Liquid Metal?
Liquid metal is completely customisable, allowing us to tailor finishes to each unique project. Its customisation possibilities encompass a vast array of appearances, including polished, aged, antiquing, brushed or textured. Alternatively, speak to us directly about any ideas you may have that are not on our website – we look forward to new challenges.
How Sustainable Is Liquid Metal Finishing?
Sustainability is another key advantage of liquid metal finishing. Since the finish uses only a thin layer of metal, it uses far less material than real metal. Moreover, our liquid metal process can use water-based binders with low VOC (volatile organic compound) content, contributing less to pollution during the emission of these compounds at room temperature.
Start Your Liquid Metal Finish Project with Revelare
At Revelare, we’re passionate about bringing design visions to life through craftsmanship, collaboration and innovation. With every project, we aim to deliver liquid metal finishes that are tactile, resilient and artfully crafted. To explore our catalogue of liquid metal finishes or discuss a bespoke collaboration, get in touch with our dedicated team or request a sample to get a feel for how we can realise your project.