Gold leaf application

**Gerry Kaspers** · 13-09-2009, 10:22 AM

Hello folks - I'm experimenting with applying gold leaf to decorate some of my silver pieces. I've bought acrylic gold size as the glue. I'm having trouble applying it neatly and also removing any overspill and finishing the piece - it all seems to disappear if I brush or sandpaper it. What am I doing wrong?

Thanks Gerry

**bustagasket** · 13-09-2009, 10:28 AM

Hi Gerry welcome to the forums, fraid i dont have any answers for you but we have a lot of talented people here so hopefully someone will be able to give you a tip. Please bear in mind that it is the weekend tho, when we are always a littlequieter on here

**MuranoSilver** · 13-09-2009, 10:31 AM

Sorry I haven't used the this method as I use the thicker leaf and Keum-Boo it on.
There are some really good instructions here though (if it helps)
Gold Leaf Gilding Information Hints and Tips
nic x

**Solunar Silver Studio** · 13-09-2009, 10:49 AM

Hi Gerry - and welcome...

I've never applied gold leaf to silver before but have tried other 'arty' applications. I have never had it go on neatly before...but that has always been part of the charm in interior decorating! I think you need to reapply over the missed bits until you have a complete covering and would then need to burnish it with an agate burnisher to help it adhere. Bear in mind that it is a very, very, thin layer of gold and will brush off really easily. I think you need a squirrel hair brush to not do any damage to what you have got stuck down....and....

....don't sand it for heaven's sake!!!!!...unless you want to be really distressed!!

It has nothing to do with jewellery...but have a read of these...I would guess it is the same principle...
A Little About Applying Gold Leaf
http://www.pictureframingmagazine.co...BURNISHING.pdf