Lesson 1Properties of genuine gold leaf: karat, microns, colour stability, and handlingLearn how karat, thickness, and metal mix impact colour, flexibility, and rust resistance in real gold leaf. Master proper handling, storage, and cutting to prevent wastage, damage, and surface flaws.
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)Understand how karat marks, leaf types, and micron ratings link to purity, strength, and ease of use. Learn to check supplier charts to pick leaf type and thickness suiting your project needs and budget.
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 consAssess wood, MDF, gessoed panels, and masonite as gilding bases, factoring in movement, absorbency, and prep needs, to choose and seal bases ensuring firm adhesion without cracks, peeling, 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 adhesives, their tack time, shine, and fit with various leaves and bases. Learn to test stickiness, manage drying, and fix adhesion issues or bleed-through.
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 fake leaf metals, their look, price, and ageing. Know when budget, setting, or design makes them better or riskier than real gold for indoor, outdoor, or short-term 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 for control, speed, and finish quality. Learn when each works best, adapt methods for flat or carved surfaces, and cut down waste, folds, and extra layering.
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 use key gilding tools like tips, cushions, knives, brushes, and gloves properly. Learn upkeep to keep blades sharp, bristles clean, and surfaces dust- and oil-free.
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 warmthKnow what bole is, how clay, glue, and colour mix, and how shades affect glow, reflection, and polish. Master mixing, applying, and sanding for smooth bases in 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
