Maybe acetone or rub with #000 steel wool. Also, try the foil tape available (in many different widths) at stained glass shops.
The fact that it did tarnish gives me hope though. Just being impatient again, I guess.
I was thinking you were trying to work the patina prior to installation. Acetone does have it's issues.....Thanks Phil I'm a little afraid to use acetone because the wooden waterline strip right beside the copper is held on with CA. I'll try #000 or a grey Scotchbrite. I did try to put three test strips in a sealed container with a little vinegar and they all tarnished overnight but I don't want to seal the ship in a container with vinegar.
The copper tape I use has a thin clear plastic film above the copper. I cut off a piece of tape an slip a scalpel under one corner and then lift it off with tweezers. Next I cut the piece to size and trim it to shape. Then I peel off the backing by the same method. After positioning it, I use a small brush to apply blackening solution.
