Bronzing Liquids in common use are of two kinds: collodion varnish, vulgarly known as "Banana liquid" and various thin oil varnishes containing gum or rosin and an excess of benzine as a reducer.

The first variety is composed of gun cotton (collodion) dissolved in amyl acetate which is made from fusel oil. This solution makes an excellent medium for bronzes, as it dries quickly, flows well and does not impair the lustre of the bronze, but rather brings it out more prominently. Furthermore, when dry, it is washable with soap and water without injury, which cannot be said of oil and resin liquids.

In order to cheapen the amyl acetate preparations, some gum is substituted in part to replace the more expensive gun cotton, and benzine is substituted in part, for amyl acetate. Such preparations are less durable. Any of the collodion varnish formulae will make satisfactory bronzing liquids.

Ordinary bronzing liquid can be made by combining one part of any pale medium to quick drying varnish of ordinary quality, with four parts of benzine. Add one-half part of liquid dryer if a very quick drying liquid is required.

Turpentine should never be used in bronzing liquid, as it attacks the bronze, injuring the color and lustre. It is best, therefore, to use a benzine varnish when possible. Bronzing liquid must be very thin in body. When radiators or other articles are bronzed while hot, the resulting coat will present the appearance of an enameled surface due to the varnish baking on them, if liquid made from gum varnish be used.

To prepare a cheap liquid, mix 1 gallon of heavy gloss oil or pale rosin copal varnish with 3 3-4 gallons of benzine and 1-4 gallon of pale liquid dryer.