Why Our Copper Mugs Don’t Patina (and What Verdigris Really Is)

handlebend
2 days ago
2 min read

Rustic copper mug on wooden table with lemon and lime wedges. Background shows another mug and a crate labeled "HANDLEBEND." Warm ambiance.

If you’ve ever owned anything made of copper, you’ve probably wondered the same thing:

Why don’t Handlebend copper mugs patina or turn green over time?

It’s a great question - and the answer comes down to how copper naturally ages, what verdigris actually is, and why we intentionally protect our mugs to preserve their look and performance.

Let’s break it down.

Does Copper Naturally Patina?

Yes — raw copper naturally changes over time.

When copper is exposed to air, moisture, and certain minerals, it begins a slow oxidation process. That process usually looks like this:

Bright copper →
Warm browns →
Darker browns →
Green oxidation (verdigris)

That green patina isn’t paint or dye - it’s a natural chemical reaction.

A famous real-world example? The copper statue atop the Nebraska State Capitol. Over decades, the copper surface oxidized into that iconic teal-green color known as verdigris.

Beautiful on architecture.

Less ideal for something you drink out of.

What Is Verdigris?

Verdigris is the green or blue-green patina that forms when copper undergoes heavy oxidation over long periods of exposure.

You’ll often see it on:

Historic buildings
Outdoor copper statues
Roofs, domes, and spires

While verdigris is visually striking, it’s not something we want developing inside or outside a drink-ware product.

Which brings us to the big difference with Handlebend mugs.

Why Handlebend Copper Mugs Don’t Tarnish

Our mugs do not patina because we intentionally prevent that process.

After extensive brushing and polishing:

Distressed mugs receive interior finishing
Fully brushed mugs are polished on both the interior and exterior

Once that work is complete, each mug is sealed using a food-safe protective coating.

What That Sealer Does:

Prevents oxidation and tarnish
Stops verdigris from forming
Preserves the bright copper finish
Adds durability for everyday use
Holds up for years and years

This isn’t a shortcut - it’s a deliberate choice.

We’ve found that most people want their mugs to:

Look as good in year five as they did on day one
Stay consistent for gifting and heirloom use
Avoid unexpected color changes over time

So we seal them.

Is the Sealer Food Safe?

Yes - 100% food safe.

Our sealing process is specifically chosen for drink-ware and designed to protect both the copper and the person using it. It creates a durable barrier without affecting the drinking experience.