Applying Metal Leaf is an authentic way of adding metallic accents to your piece and can be done in just a few easy steps using Jolie Gold Size. Read on for step by step instructions.
IMPORTANT: If you are gilding over a piece painted with Jolie Paint, make sure to apply your Gold Size and Metal Leaf before the Jolie Finishing Wax as the Gold Size will not stick to already waxed surfaces. Gold Size and Metal Leaf are intended for interior use only.
Read on for step-by-step instructions or check out our instructional videos below.
Tools & Materials
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- Jolie Gold Size
- Jolie Metal Leaf
- Jolie Artist Brush
- Jolie Finishing Wax in Clear
- Lint free cloths
- Baby powder
- Scissors
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- Jolie Gold Size
- Jolie Metal Leaf
- Jolie Artist Brush
- Jolie Finishing Wax in Clear
-
- Lint free cloths
- Baby powder
- Scissors
Step 1
Start by applying a thin, even layer of Gold Size with a Jolie Artist Brush. Make sure to reach any details or carved areas of your piece and avoid leaving any puddles or drips. If you are gilding a porous surface, wait 15 minutes and apply a second coat of Gold Size. Wash your brush as soon as possible with warm, soapy water to avoid damaging the bristles.
Wait about 10-20 minutes for the Gold Size to come to tack. The Gold Size will appear milky when first applied and will become clear and sticky when it is ready to accept the Metal Leaf.
Step 2
Gently apply Jolie Metal Leaf over the tacky size. Using a dry, soft brush, push the leaf onto the surface. Continue with the next sheet of Metal Leaf, overlapping it slightly with the first sheet so that there are no gaps. Continue the process until all of the areas where you applied Gold Size have been covered with Metal Leaf
PRO TIP: Rub some baby powder on your hands before handling the Metal Leaf so that it doesn’t stick to your hands. To make the Metal Leaf easier to manage for smaller areas, you can also cut the sheets into smaller strips before use.
Step 3
Remove any loose, excess leaf by gently pushing it away with a soft brush. Be careful not to scratch the Metal Leaf with the bristles of your brush. You can follow up with a cheesecloth or a soft cloth to help remove any last little pieces.
Step 4
Apply Clear Finishing Wax with a lint-free cloth to seal and protect the Metal Leaf. Colored Jolie Finishing Waxes can also be applied to knock back the brightness of the metal leaf. Wipe back any excess with a clean cloth.
PRO TIP: If you are using a water-based topcoat instead of Finishing Wax, apply a coat of shellac before your topcoat, as water-based products may cause metal leaf to tarnish.