How to paint copper tube to look "industrial"

[JP_]

I need to put some shelves up next to our copper heating pipes that run down the corner of the room. I am thinking of getting something like these, if I can also paint the copper to look similar. Just no idea what paint or method would be needed.

 

[JohnD]

I think that's a rubbed finish, where they applied bronze spray and let it harden, then sprayed with black and partially rubbed it off with a rag.

Or (more likely) the other way round (because bronze paint is more expensive so they'd only use a trace).

To simulate wear.

Your own paint will NOT match the factory finish.

Paint the pipes to match the wall.

Edit:
Looking again, I think the metal was painted black, then lightly rubbed with a rag holding traces of bronze paint. This is much more economical in materials, but not very convincing.