Restore a plated finish using Rub ‘n Buff. An easy and affordable way to give napkin rings or other metal items a facelift and quick makeover!
Happy Friday!
It’s been another rainy and stormy week, curtailing gardening and outdoor activities,
so I enjoyed a little retail therapy at my favorite antique mall.
I picked up a set of four vintage napkin rings for $12.
The napkin rings were bundled in a plastic bag, so I couldn’t get a close look at them.
Initially, I thought they were just tarnished and in need of some TLC and silver polish,
(the price should have been a clue. :) When I got them home and out of the bag,
I saw the plating was completely worn away in some areas.
They were a little shabby and timeworn with a few scratches,
but I liked the idea of giving them some new life and a little love.
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Rub ‘n Buff to the rescue!
I was especially drawn to two of the napkin rings that were monogrammed.
‘NJW’ and ‘IVM’ are so much more interesting than my intials, ‘MMM’ :)
If you’re not familiar with Rub ‘n Buff, it’s available in 9 wax-metallic finishes.
It’s made from metallic pigments and carnauba wax, and self-seals, acting as its own waterproof barrier.
Rub ‘n Buff is ideal to use on picture frame moldings, highlighting wood detailing on furniture,
updating drawer pulls and hardware, candlesticks, light fixtures,
lamps or almost any metal or painted wood surface.
A little goes a long way. . . a 1/2 oz. (15 ml) tube can cover up to 20 square feet.
Follow the manufacturer’s directions on the package and use Rub ‘n Buff in a well-ventilated area.
I worked on my napkin rings on the screened porch.
I used Silver Leaf Rub ‘n Buff and applied it using a Q-tip to the napkin rings.
You may want to wear disposable gloves while working with Rub ‘n Buff.
It will wash off your hands but will require scrubbing.
Apply it thinly, as you can always go back and apply more
to build up the metallic finish to your liking and preference.
If using a brush to apply it, you’ll need to use mineral spirits to clean your brush
or use an inexpensive disposable brush.
For small projects, I highly recommend using a Q-tip to apply it!
Rub ‘n Buff dries almost immediately.
Buff with a soft cloth to bring out the luster and shine.
I sort of buffed as I went; applying some, then rubbing it off.
These napkin rings have more of a pewter finish as opposed to silver,
but in the plus column, they’ll never need polishing and blend with a
set of four pewter napkin rings I already had, so I can mix and match!
Note: If you have a surface that is scratched,
Rub ‘n Buff will highlight the scratches rather than conceal them,
much like a semi gloss paint shows imperfections on a wall as opposed to flat wall paint.
If you find yourself in a ‘napkin ring drought’ like I do without my favorite napkin ring source,
Pier1, here are some more napkin ring projects you might like:
How to Make Easy Napkin Rings with Cardboard Tubes, Ribbon and Wax Seals
A Fun Trick & Easy DIY to Dress Up Your Napkins for Halloween
Transforming Napkin Rings with Magnets and Rub ‘n Buff
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Between Naps on the Porch
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Wow..what a simple fix but huge difference. I have rarely used napkin holders but I just might have to look for some next time I go antiquing/shopping. Have a great day.
Peace
We are going to give the rub and buff a try on our slightly tarnished very loved napkin rings, what an inspired idea. We are going to also look up the little magnetic bumble bees, such a charming addition to our tablescapes.
Please tell us the name of the maker and pattern of the white platter with dark blue design shown in the photo of your refurbished napkin rings!
Hi Connie, It’s vintage, ‘Denstone’ by Alfred Meakin. You can see more of it here: https://homeiswheretheboatis.net/2022/05/18/pretty-in-pink-peonies-and-ball-jar-bouquets-in-the-potting-shed/
I love all the napkin ring ideas! Can’t wait to try! Thank you!!
Mary, What a wonderful idea! I think your refurbished napkin rings look great now! I must say I am drawn to the sunflower and Halloween napkin rings you made! They are so pretty! Happy weekend! Clara❤️
Those are gorgeous. Just so lovely and glad to learn of a new cleaner.
Wow Mary, this is amazing! All the napkin rings you made are so cute, love the Halloween ones especially!
Jenna
Mary, I love the vintage napkin rings you found! I have been using Rub ’n Buff for years. It is an amazing product. The silver leaf looks great, and I do love the monogrammed ones! Happy Friday, it is a rainy one here!
Thank you, Mary, for introducing us to Rub’n Buff and including information about how to apply it, and it’s characteristics, for instance, that it will highlight scratches, rather than conceal them. Rub’n Buff is now on my shopping list so I can finally refurbish the metal turkey napkin rings I spray painted silver years ago, but was never satisfied with the result. Your napkin ring ideas are creative, unique and absolutely beautiful. I always learn from your posts and come away inspired. You are a wonder!
Mary, you made those look like brand new, how awesome! I have a collection of silverplate and sterling napkin rings, but pretty much leave them as is. Yours make me think twice!
Mary, I had read about rub n buff in your other posts but I had no idea what it could do to tarnished napkin rings like the ones you found. I didn’t realize all the different colors it comes in.
Such an easy fix! Sounds like a great rainy day project. I have an Amazon wish list that I seem to add to with every one of your posts. Adding rub n buff!
Thank you for the detailed instructions too!
I love to use napkin rings! Like you I am so sad Pier 1 Imports have shut their doors….they were a great source for many beautiful napkin rings. But Mary to the rescue with great ideas on how to create your own! You inspired me to find them when I go antiquing. Also can you please let me know where I can get those beautiful blue and white napkins? Thank you for your wonderful website!
Thank you for your sweet comment Linda! The napkins came from Bed, Bath & Beyond many years ago, another source I miss! ♥
Didn’t those napkin rings turn out great??!! I have a tube of rub n buff that I bought years ago. It does last forever and comes in handy.
Happy weekend, Mary!
Lots of fun rainy day projects!
WOW! That really did the trick, didn’t it? They look wonderful now! And I love our monogram is the same. MMM is a very “delicious” monogram to have. We are lucky. It’s fun.
Mary, you are just the smartest, creative person I know! What a find and your special rub and buff makes them extra special. I enjoyed going back and looking through all your creative ways of making your personalized napkin rings. So unique and a great project with awesome results! Thank you!