Lesson 1Properties of genuine gold leaf: karat, microns, colour stability, and handlingLook at how karat, thickness, and metal mix affect colour, bendiness, and rust resistance in real gold leaf. Learn right ways to handle, store, and cut it to save money, avoid damage, and keep surfaces smooth without faults.
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)Get clear on how karat marks, leaf types, and micron sizes link to purity, strength, and how it feels to work with. Learn to check maker's guides so you pick the right leaf thickness for your job and what you can spend.
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. Think about how they move, soak up stuff, and need prep, so you choose and seal ones that stick well and stop cracks, lifting, or colour changes.
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 fake sizes, their sticky times, shine, and how they work with leaves and bases. Learn to test stickiness, manage drying, and fix common sticking problems or marks showing 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 usual fake leaf metals, their looks, prices, and how they age. Learn when cost, weather, or design make them good or dodgy choices instead of real gold for inside, outside, or short 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 surface quality. Learn when each works best, how to change your way 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 and bits right, from tips and cushions to knives, brushes, and gloves. Learn care tricks to keep blades sharp, hairs clean, and surfaces free of 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 warmthKnow what bole is, how clay, glue, and colour mix, and how colours change warmth, shine, and polish. Learn mixing, putting on, and sanding for smooth bases that work well 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
