Beautifying objects with gold leaf dates back to ancient times.
     Magnificent statues, plaques and panels were carved from hardwood, then embellished with gold leaf. Medieval picture panels often had gilded (gold leafed) backgrounds. In some cases panels were completely gilded, then colours were applied over this. This style was characteristic of Byzantine and Renaissance art, imparting a special splendour. Ancient methods involved applying a basecoat to carvings before covering with a thick, tacky varnish. The leaf was pressed into the varnish, then burnished. These same steps have been simplified with the use of modern materials. The following steps offer an outline to this process.

Gold Leafing Objects:
     Apply a uniform coat of Statuary Base Coat Product to the object being gold leafed. Wash brush in soapy water. Allow base coat to dry 60 minutes. Apply a thin coat of Gold Leaf Adhesive. Be sure there are no 'puddles'. Wash brush out immediately in soapy water. As it dries over the next 60 minutes, it will change from a milky white to completely clear, becoming slightly tacky. (Gold Leaf applied to adhesive which has not become clear will not adhere.)
     With clean dry hands, pick up a sheet of Gold Leaf and apply it to the sticky surface. Some overlapping is alright. Be sure to work in a non-drafty workspace. An orange stick or razor blade may be helpful to carefully lift the gold leaf sheets as they are very thin.
     When surface is completely covered in gold, remove excess leaf with gentle strokes of a soft, smooth brush. A pad of soft cloth or your fingers could also be used. Small spots or cracks may show the base coat in places where the leaf has torn. This is desirable for an "old world" appearance. Large spots may be patched by following these same steps again.

Adding Finishes To Your Project

Seal your gilded objects.
     Apply a coat of Satin Sealer, and allow 2 hours to dry. Clean brush with thinner.

Add an antique finish to your object.
     Apply a coat of Antiquing Glaze into crevices and corners. Gently wipe glaze over entire surface with a soft cheese cloth pad. Removing glaze in areas will add a highlight. Allow 3 hours to dry. Wash brush in thinner. If you are not happy with the look, simply retry the process from the beginning. After the Antiquing Glaze is dry, you can apply a final coat of Old World Art Satin Sealer, allowing 2 hours to dry before handling.