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What is needed to achieve Antiqued Bronze Finish on plate steel?

I am making a garden fountain out of a large bowl shaped piece of plate steel. I cut the rounded end off of a large propane storage tank (5' diameter) and welded a lip around it to make it look like a large cauldron. I want to apply an antiqued or distressed bronze finish to it. It would need to be finished in a way to protect it from the outside elements as well as withstanding the water that will be inside of it. I am an "do-it-yourselfer" but like to experiment with difficult projects. Any ideas or recommendations?

Thanks,

David Campbell
Commercial Builder - Florence, South Carolina, USA
February 21, 2009

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It can be brush copper plated and then coloured as copper/copper alloy.Then you must clearcoat it-Everbrite [a finishing.com supporting advertiser] and Sharkhide ⇦ this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] are good brands. But nobody knows how long it can be okay -- maybe month or two. Solid copper or bronze is much better option.Hope it helps and good luck!

Goran Budija
- Cerovski vrh Croatia
February 26, 2009

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Thanks Goran,
Brushed copper plating sounds interesting. Would like to investigate. Know of any manufacturers of materials you would recommend or website to go to?

David Campbell [returning]
- Florence, South Carolina, USA
February 28, 2009