Architectural gilding — the application of gold and metal leaf to interiors and exteriors such as ceilings, frames and furniture — is used by restoration specialists, decorative painters and conservators to achieve high-end decorative finishes. In these videos, you will learn how to apply gold leaf on different surfaces.
Gold Leaf Wall
by Noel Donnellan
Gilded Wall on Plaster of Paris tiles organic design using Imitation Gold Leaf.
HOW TO GOLD AND SILVER LEAF GILDING MODELLO CEILING
By DESHUHOUSE
Faux painting. How to apply a two layer Modello to a ceiling using paint, glaze, silver leaf and gold leaf.
23 Karat Gold Leaf Ceiling
by The Brain Farm
Gilding with 23 Karat Gold Leaf. An example of master craftsmanship for clients worldwide by Fresco Decorative Painting, New York.
Can I use this technique on a mirror frame?
Janice, yes you can, but the techniques when doing a piece of furniture like a mirror frame is slightly different. But the filling process on the mirror to make any dents or holes filled, then sanded, and wiped very clean, then applying your base color anything from rose pink to deep red (or deep blue if using silver leaf). you would then apply gilding sizing (glue)with a thin layer, you don’t want the glue to puddle in any areas. it should be just barely tacky to the touch, then you know it’s ready. laying gold leaf is a particularly delicate task and takes a lot of time to master. You need to make sure there’s slight overlap as you saw in video, then brushed with a very soft brush, going back and using small pieces of leaf to catch any holes. once totally covered and let dry for a few hours, you would polish it with a combination of very soft cloth and agate burnishers to bring out highlights, once that’ done you want to spray a clear coat of quality lacquer or varnish. Even though real gold doesn’t tarnish it still needs to be protected. There are numerous books and YouTube videos on gilding frames and furniture. This online store is a great place to get many of your materials.