I actually used a copper anchor plate with a 1/4″ tie rod. I will see if I can find a close up photo of it. It is a rather common stock item found in the copper fittings section of your local hardware store.

The copper pipe was bright and shiny – and had red ink marking on it when new. To tone it down I simply polished it with Brasso – Yes this makes it very shiny but it removes the coating as well as the red ink printing.

I let it sit outside for a while exposed to the elements and it tarnished up pretty quickly. In addition just handing the pipe while making it helped speed up the tarnishing.

As you can see from my copper pots and pans — I use them – I dont polish my copper – I see no need for it.

After you initially polish off the coating on the copper – just let it be – it will tarnish up to a nice patina on its own in a very short period of time.