Preparing the Surface
Clean the surface thoroughly with a cloth, paper towel, or a dry brush with soft bristles to remove any debris.
The original painting should be dry before starting the gold leaf application.
Applying the Leafing Size
Squeeze out the Leafing Size onto the item you want to leaf and smooth it out with a brush
You can also paint patterns with the Leafing Size
Allow the size to become tacky, which takes about 25 minutes at normal humidity.
The size will stay open and tacky for 24 hours, allowing you to apply leaf on porous and non-porous surfaces
Applying the Gold Leaf
Carefully lay the gold leaf over the tacky size, wherever you applied it
Use a clean, dry paint brush to gently press down on the leaf from one side to the other to ensure it adheres firmly.
Brush away any excess leaf with a soft bristle brush to reveal the final result.
Sealing the Gold Leaf
Once the gold leaf is applied to your liking, seal it with a varnish to prevent oxidation and color changes over time.
For a sparkling finish, quickly apply the Premium Iridescent Varnish with a soft brush, working from side to side and slightly overlapping each stroke.
Multiple coats will increase the shimmer.
Storing Leftover Leaf
Store any leftover gold leaf in a dry place, such as a set of drawers or a plastic folder, to prevent it from getting wet or crumpled.
Using Tweezers for Smaller Pieces
When applying gold leaf to highlight intricate details, use craft tweezers to apply the smaller pieces with precision.
Remember, the Leafing Size is versatile and can be used on various surfaces, including wood, plaster, glass, metal, leather, and canvas
FAQ’s
What is the difference between imitation gold leaf and real gold leaf?
Imitation gold leaf, also called composition gold leaf or Dutch metal, is made from a combination of copper, zinc, and brass to imitate the appearance of real gold leaf. Real gold leaf is made from pure gold. Both can be used to coat surfaces and give the appearance of solid gold, but imitation gold leaf is a more affordable alternative.
Can imitation gold leaf be used the same way as real gold leaf?
Yes, imitation gold leaf can generally be used in the same way as real gold leaf, such as for coating picture frames, furniture, and architectural details. The application process may be slightly different, but imitation leaf can produce a similar decorative effect.
What are the advantages of using imitation gold leaf over real gold leaf?
The main advantage of imitation gold leaf is that it is much less expensive than real gold leaf. Imitation leaf can still create a gold-like appearance at a fraction of the cost.
What surfaces can imitation gold leaf be applied to?
Imitation gold leaf can be applied to a variety of surfaces including walls, ceilings, furniture, metal, glass, paper, and stone.
How durable is imitation gold leaf compared to real gold leaf?
Imitation gold leaf is generally more durable and less fragile than real gold leaf. However, it can still tarnish over time and may need to be sealed or varnished to preserve the appearance.
Can imitation gold leaf be used for art and painting applications?
Yes, imitation gold leaf can be used in art and painting, similar to how real gold leaf is used. It can add a metallic, gilded effect to paintings, drawings, and other artworks.
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