Plating copper onto objects via electrical current is an art known as Electroforming.

I preserve botanical specimens using silica in order to create a permanent art piece, plating it with upcycled copper scrap.

The object is turned into a cathode by coating it in a special conductive paint made of acetone, fine graphite powder, copper shavings and a secret binding agent ;)

The anode & cathode are submerged in an electrolytic solution of metal salts. (Copper Sulphate [CuSO4]). 

The plated object's surface area is calculated and I use a benchtop lab power supply for each piece in order to provide the exact current needed to plate the object without frying anything involved, including my garage.

Status: Spring Bench cleanup!  Where did I stick that copper rod...

2024 Goal: Research & create different patinas from chemicals on hand around the home.