Lesson 1Properties of genuine gold leaf: karat, microns, colour stability, and handlingLearn how karat, thickness, and metal mix affect colour, flexibility, and rust resistance in real gold leaf. Get tips on proper handling, storage, and cutting to cut down on waste, damage, and marks on the surface.
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 sizes link to purity, strength, and ease of use. Learn to check supplier guides to pick the right leaf thickness for 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 consCheck out wood, MDF, gesso panels, and masonite for gilding bases, thinking about flex, soak-up, and prep needs, so you pick and seal bases that hold leaf well and stop cracks, lifts, or stains.
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 sizesLook into oil, water-based, and man-made sizes, their stick times, shine, and fit with leaves and bases. Learn to test stickiness, manage drying, and dodge common stick fails or show-through problems.
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 fake leaf metals, their look, price, and wear over time. Know when cost, weather, or design makes them good or dodgy swaps for real gold in indoor, outdoor, or short-term jobs.
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 shines, how to tweak methods for flat or carved bits, and cut waste, folds, and extra 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 glovesKnow and use key gilding tools right, from tips and cushions to knives, brushes, and gloves. 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 colours affect glow, bounce, and polish. Learn mixing, putting on, 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
