Lesson 1Properties of genuine gold leaf: karat, microns, colour stability, and handlingExamine how karat, thickness, and alloy mix influence colour, flexibility, and resistance to tarnish in genuine gold leaf. Master proper handling, storage, and cutting techniques 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 labels, leaf formats, and micron ratings link to purity, durability, and ease of use. Learn to interpret manufacturer charts to select leaf type and thickness that suit 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 requirements, so you can choose and seal substrates that ensure strong adhesion and avoid 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 tack times, sheen, and compatibility with various leaves and substrates. Learn to test tackiness, manage drying, and prevent common adhesion problems or print-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 typical imitation leaf alloys, their look, cost, and ageing properties. Learn when budget, environment, or design goals make them suitable or risky choices compared to genuine 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 surface quality. Learn when each works best, how to adjust techniques for flat or carved surfaces, and how to reduce wastage, creasing, and accidental 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 use key gilding tools and consumables correctly, from tips and cushions to knives, brushes, and gloves. Learn maintenance practices to keep edges 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 warmthUnderstand bole composition, how clay, glue, and pigment interact, and how colour choices affect warmth, reflectivity, and burnish. Master mixing, application, and sanding for smooth, responsive grounds 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
