Gold leaf is a delicate foil of gold that can be used to embellish covers, picture frames, books, and even food and drinks. The process of applying gold leaf is known as gilding and requires a few specialized tools and materials, including primer, adhesive, brushes, knives, and soft pads. Gold leaf is available in sheets or rolls, which can be expensive; many gilders use imitation gold leaf as it is more affordable.

Part 1

Step 1. Prepare the item to be gilded by using painter's tape to cover areas where you don't want to apply gold and to protect the rest of the surface.

Step 1

Prepare the item to be gilded by using painter's tape to cover areas where you don't want to apply gold and to protect the rest of the surface. Use a cloth to remove any dust that has accumulated from sanding.

Step 2. Apply a primer that is specifically designed for gilding to the item.

Step 2

Apply a primer that is specifically designed for gilding to the item. If you do not use a gilding primer, you will need to apply a base layer of paint known as bole. You can choose to use bole even when it's not required; some gilders prefer this option.

Step 3. Apply the gilding adhesive.

Step 3

Apply the gilding adhesive. This adhesive will dry to a tacky state (fairly dry but sticky to the touch) within a few hours. It will remain tacky for several more hours, giving you time to apply the gold leaf.

Step 4. Apply the gold leaf.

Step 4

Apply the gold leaf. Carefully peel the sheet from its backing and adhere it to the item. Alternatively, you can place the sheet and hold it against the surface, rubbing it with a brush or your fingers, and then gently pull away the backing.

  • After placing the gold leaf on the surface, blow on it to help it settle evenly for working with.

Step 5. Consider cutting the gold leaf into smaller pieces for easier application.

Step 5

  • Use a knife to lift the sheet from the backing and place it flat onto the gilded area you have prepared. Cut the sheets into small pieces and pick them up with a cotton swab.
  • Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the back of your hand for easy lifting of the gold leaf. Touch the cotton swab to the petroleum jelly, then touch it to the sheet. This will lift it from the paper and it will stick to the cotton swab until you place it on the gilded item.

Step 6. Use a soft brush to smooth the gold leaf onto the surface completely.

Step 6

Using a soft brush, smooth the gold leaf onto the surface completely. It should look as if the item is made of gold rather than just coated with gold leaf.

Step 7. Check for areas where the gold leaf has not adhered and may have come off.

Step 7

Check for areas where the gold leaf has not adhered and may have come off. Use a small piece of leaf to cover these spots.

Step 8. Seal the gold leaf with acrylic for a protective finish.

Step 8

Seal the gold leaf with acrylic for a protective finish. The top coat will protect the sheet from damage caused by handling, dust, water, and ultraviolet light. You do not need to seal gold leaf rated at 22 karats or higher.

Step 9. If desired, give the item an antique look by applying lacquer.

Step 9