Lesson 1Properties of genuine gold leaf: karat, microns, colour stability, and handlingStudy how karat, thickness, and alloy composition affect colour, malleability, and tarnish resistance in genuine gold leaf, and learn correct handling, storage, and cutting methods to avoid waste, damage, and surface defects.
Karat ratings and alloy metal proportionsMicron thickness and mechanical strengthColor stability and tarnish resistanceHandling loose leaf on cushion and tipStorage, transport, and contamination risksLesson 2Gold leaf thickness and nomenclature (e.g., 23k, 24k, loose leaf sizes, micron ratings)Clarify how karat labels, leaf formats, and micron ratings relate to purity, durability, and working feel. Learn to read manufacturer charts so you can match leaf type and thickness to project demands and budget constraints.
Reading karat marks and purity standardsLoose leaf book sizes and sheet layoutTransfer leaf formats and backing papersMicron ratings and wear resistanceSelecting leaf type for project demandsLesson 3Surface substrates: wood panel, MDF, gessoed board, prepared masonite — pros and consEvaluate wood, MDF, gessoed panels, and masonite as gilding bases, considering movement, absorbency, and preparation needs, so you can select and seal substrates that support stable adhesion and prevent cracking, lifting, or discolouration.
Solid wood panels and seasonal movementMDF boards, density, and edge sealingGessoed panels for fine art gildingMasonite and hardboard preparation stepsPrimers, sealers, and barrier coatsLesson 4Types of size (adhesive): oil size formulations, water-based sizes, and modern synthetic sizesExplore oil, water-based, and synthetic sizes, their open times, sheen, and compatibility with different leaves and substrates, and learn how to test tack, control drying, and avoid common adhesion failures or print-through issues.
Oil size open time and curing stagesWater-based size behavior and limitsModern acrylic and synthetic size optionsTesting for proper tack before laying leafCommon adhesion and print-through problemsLesson 5Imitation leaf varieties: composition, cost, durability, and when to useCompare common imitation leaf alloys, their appearance, cost, and aging behaviour, and learn when budget, environment, or design intent make them preferable or risky alternatives to genuine gold in interior, exterior, or temporary projects.
Copper, brass, and aluminum compositionsVisual differences versus genuine goldOxidation, sealing, and long-term agingCost planning for large surface projectsChoosing imitation leaf for specific contextsLesson 6Transfer leaf vs loose leaf: advantages, limitations, and handling differencesCompare transfer and loose leaf in terms of control, speed, and surface quality. Learn when each format excels, how to adapt technique for flat or carved work, and how to minimise waste, creasing, and unintended double gilding.
How transfer leaf is manufacturedAdvantages on flat and vertical surfacesLoose leaf for carved and delicate detailsTechnique changes between the two formatsAvoiding waste, overlap, and stuck backingLesson 7Tools and consumables: gilder's tip, cushion, knives, brushes, transfer paper, cotton glovesIdentify and correctly use essential gilding tools and consumables, from tips and cushions to knives, brushes, and gloves, and learn maintenance routines that keep edges sharp, hairs clean, and surfaces free from dust and oils.
Gilder’s cushion, knife, and cutting techniqueGilder’s tip loading and leaf transferSoft brushes for skewings and finishingTransfer paper and masking materialsGloves, dust control, and tool careLesson 8Traditional bole and its formulations: clay bole, colour choices, and effect on warmthUnderstand what bole is, how clay, glue, and pigment interact, and how colour choices influence warmth, reflectivity, and burnish. Learn mixing, application, and sanding methods that create smooth, responsive grounds for water gilding.
Components of traditional clay boleMixing bole with glue to usable consistencyApplying and leveling bole layersColor selection for tonal warmth controlBurnishing response and surface sheen
