Anodizing is a process which can be applied to aluminium to cause a layer of aluminium oxide to grow on the metals surface.

This layer is transparent, but porous, and can absorb certain dyes and inks, aswell as grease, dirt and moisture.

Work made of clean, pure aluminium is suspended in an acid solution, and an electrical current is passed through it. The current will flow from the work (which is the positive element , the anode) through the electrolyte to the cathode ( the negative element) and causing a chemical reaction between the oxygen in the water and the aluminium, building a layer of oxide on the surface.

At the same time the sulphuric acid eats into this oxide layer, creating microscopic pores, which will absorb certain pigments.

After this process I hand paint and decorate the metal with permanent inks and specialist dyes. During this part of the process latex gloves have to be worn so as not to contaminate the anodized surface with grease and dirt from fingers. However, sometimes a stray fingerprint can be found if you look closely.

After decorating with inks, the metal is suspended in hot dyes for 15 mins, and then it is boiled in water for 30 - 60 minutes to seal the colour permanently.

Finally, the coloured metal is cleaned with a mild solvent, and then ready to be used.