As a first step to experiment with natural dyes. I decided to make my own mordants. Following the general instructions I found in a couple books, I mixed copper with 1 part water to 1 part vinegar. Then I mixed rusty nails with 2 parts water to 1 part vinegar. It’s been 11 days of waiting now. I’m looking for something like this picture from Wild Color by Jenny Dean.  

 
However this is what I have after 11 days. 

  
Compared to what it looked like on day 1. 

  
The only caveat is that I originally used the flexible copper, but I added some non-flexible copper pipes a few days ago. 

Do you think the iron is ready?  Do I need to add more vinegar or anything to the copper?