This section is from the book "The English And American Mechanic", by B. Frank Van Cleve. Also available from Amazon: The English And American Mechanic.
Gum sandarac, 1 lb.; balsam of fir, balsam of Tolu, and acetate of lead, of each, 2 oz.; linseed oil, ½ pint; spirits of turpentine, 2 qts. Put all into a suitable kettle, except the turpentine, over a slow fire, at first; then raise to a higher heat till all are matted; now take from the fire, and, when a little cool, stir in the spirits of turpentine, and strain through a fine cloth. This is transparent; but by the following modifications any or all the various colors are made from it.
Prussian blue, 1 oz.; asphaltum, 2 oz.; spirits of turpentine, ½ pint. Melt the asphaltum in the turpentine; rub up the blue with a little of it; mix well, and strain; then add the whole to 1 pint of the first, above.
Indigo, and Prussian blue, both finely pulverized, of each ½ oz.; spirits of turpentine, 1 pint. Mix well, and strain. Add of this to one pint of the first until the color suits.
Take spirits of turpentine, ½ pt.; add cochineal. ½ oz.; let stand 15 hours, and strain. Add of this to the first to suit the fancy. If carmine is used instead of cochineal, it will make a fine color for watch hands.
Take 1 oz. of pulverized root of curcuma, and stir of it into 1 pt. of the first until the color pleases you; let stand a few hours, and strain.
Mix equal parts of the blue and yellow together, then mix with the first until it suits the fancy.
Mix a little of the red with more of the yellow, and then with the first as heretofore, until pleased.
Mix a little of the blue to more in quantity of the red, and then with the first until suited. Apply with a brush.
Demar varnish, ½ gal.; fine ground Prussian blue .; mix thoroughly. Makes a splendid appearance. Excellent for blueing watch hands.
 
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