How to gild frames

Resurrect tired timber frames with a gleaming coat of imitation gold leaf. Whether you opt for blanket coverage or just highlight the details, gilding is a sure-fire way to bring new life to old wood. In addition, giving a common aesthetic to a disparate collection of picture frames allows you to group a number of different prints together. Gold leaf is available in several shades, ranging from bright yellow to a warm, aged patina. There are a number of techniques for applying gold leaf and it requires a certain amount of mastery to achieve some finishes. We’ve used a simple application method that also works with silver leaf.

For those who want to acquire further skills or graduate to gilding furniture, classes are available in most areas. To find a gilding course near you, visit www.craft-search.com.au.

How to gild frames

You will need
Imitation gold leaf, prepared red bole (red-ochre coloured primer), gold size (glue), gilder’s knife (or small sharp knife or scissors), shellac, 1 large and 1 small soft brush for applying gold leaf, three medium to large brushes (all from art and craft stores); talcum powder, white vinegar (from supermarkets); medium-grade sandpaper (from hardware stores).

 

1. Make a solution of half white vinegar and half water. Brush the solution on to the timber frame to raise the grain and provide a good surface for gilding. Allow to dry. 
2. Apply a coat of acrylic bole (a red-ochre coloured primer that produces a hard, even surface for gold leaf to adhere to and gives the finished item a warm colour). Allow to dry, then apply a second coat. Once dry, rub with medium-grade sandpaper to smooth the surface, then brush to remove any dust.
3. Before handling the gold leaf, dust your hands lightly with talcum powder to prevent it sticking to your fingers. Use a gilder’s knife, small sharp knife or scissors to tear or cut gold leaf to the desired size – use smaller pieces for detailed areas, saving whole sheets for larger sections.
4. Raise your frame by placing it on a box or block. Working in sections, using a brush, apply a thin, even coat of gold size over the bole. When the gold size changes from white to clear – this should take 5-10 minutes depending on the thickness – gently place the gold leaf on the frame, overlapping the pieces slightly (it’s best to work from the outside in). Use a large soft brush to smooth the gold leaf on to the surface (use a small brush for detailed areas), dabbing it down rather than wiping it, so it doesn’t tear. Wipe away any excess gold leaf with a soft brush and save it to fill any gaps. Use a small watercolour brush to work on any patches missing gold leaf. 
5. Seal the frame with a coat of shellac varnish to protect the imitation gold leaf and prevent tarnishing.

Photography: Andrew Lehmann. Styling: Georgia Harvey-Sutton.