At Wrights of Lymm, we understand the intricacies of achieving a flawless gilded finish, whether it's for gold leaf or silver leaf. A high-quality gilding project requires not only skilled craftsmanship but also the right tools and materials. Whether you’re a professional gilder or a hobbyist, knowing the essential gilding products is key to success. In this guide, we’ll explore the vital components for professional gilding, including gold and silver leaf sheets, brushes, adhesives, and sealants.

 

Gold and Silver Leaf Sheets: The Foundation of Gilding

 

Gold Leaf
Gold leaf is a thin layer of gold that can be applied to surfaces to create a luxurious, gleaming finish. At Wrights of Lymm, we offer a range of high-carat gold leaf sheets that are perfect for intricate projects, whether it's art, furniture, or architectural details. Gold leaf comes in various carat levels, with 24-carat being the purest and most lustrous. Lower-carat gold leaf, such as 22 or 18 carat, may contain other metals like copper or silver, creating different shades and textures.

 

Silver Leaf
Silver leaf, while not as opulent as gold, offers a stunning, cool-toned metallic finish ideal for modern and minimalist designs. Silver leaf can be made from real silver or more affordable metals like aluminium. Since silver tarnishes over time, especially in high-humidity environments, a protective layer of varnish or sealant is often required to maintain its shine. At Wrights of Lymm, we recommend high-quality silver leaf sheets to achieve a sleek, refined look.

 

Gilding Brushes: Precision and Control

 To achieve the smooth and even application of gold or silver leaf, specialised brushes are a must. Here are the key types:

Gilder’s Tip Brush
A gilder’s tip brush is designed specifically for picking up and placing delicate leaf sheets onto surfaces. The bristles are usually made from soft hair, such as squirrel or mongoose, allowing the gilder to handle the thin metallic sheets without tearing them. These brushes are available in different widths to accommodate various project sizes.

Soft Mop Brush
After laying down the gold or silver leaf, a soft mop brush is used to smooth out wrinkles and ensure proper adhesion. The ultra-soft bristles help to press the leaf onto the adhesive without damaging the surface, ensuring a seamless finish.

Burnishing Brush
Once the leaf is applied and dry, burnishing brushes or tools are used to polish the surface to a high shine. At Wrights of Lymm, we offer burnishing brushes designed for gold and silver leaf, allowing you to achieve the perfect sheen and depth of colour.

 

Adhesives: Ensuring Strong Bonding

 Adhesive is one of the most critical components in gilding. Without proper adhesive, the leaf will not adhere well to the surface, leading to an uneven or patchy finish. Two main types of adhesives are typically used for gilding:

Water-Based Gilding Size
Water-based gilding size is a popular option for interior projects. It dries relatively quickly, allowing you to apply gold or silver leaf within a few hours. This type of adhesive is also eco-friendly and easy to clean up, making it a favourite among hobbyists and professionals alike. At Wrights of Lymm, we recommend water-based size for smaller, indoor projects that require a smooth, clean application.

Oil-Based Gilding Size
For outdoor projects or surfaces exposed to more wear and tear, oil-based gilding size is the adhesive of choice. It takes longer to dry—sometimes up to 24 hours—but offers a stronger bond and is more resistant to moisture and temperature changes. Oil-based size is perfect for exterior gilding, such as architectural features, where durability is crucial.

 

Sealants: Preserving the Finish

Once the gold or silver leaf is applied, it's important to protect it from wear and environmental factors. A sealant or varnish serves as a protective barrier, ensuring the longevity and durability of the gilded surface.

Acrylic Varnish
Acrylic varnishes are often used for interior gilding projects. They provide a clear protective layer over the gold or silver leaf, preserving its shine while protecting it from dust, dirt, and minor abrasions. Acrylic varnishes dry quickly and are easy to apply, making them a great option for smaller indoor projects.

Shellac
For a traditional finish, shellac is commonly used in gilding. Shellac is a natural resin that provides excellent protection while enhancing the depth and brilliance of gold leaf in particular. It’s ideal for furniture, picture frames, and other decorative pieces. Shellac creates a beautiful, warm glow that complements gold leaf's inherent richness.

Polyurethane Sealant
For outdoor or high-traffic areas, a polyurethane sealant is recommended. It provides a tougher, more durable protective coat that can withstand moisture, temperature fluctuations, and physical wear. This type of sealant is commonly used for outdoor gilding projects, such as signage, sculptures, and architectural details.

 

Other Gilding Essentials: Tools of the Trade

In addition to brushes, adhesives, and sealants, several other tools are essential for a successful gilding project:

  • Gilding Knife: A gilding knife is used to cut the delicate gold or silver leaf sheets into manageable sizes before applying them to the surface.
  • Cushion Pad: A cushion pad provides a soft surface to lay out and prepare the leaf sheets before applying them.
  • Gilding Bole: For certain traditional gilding techniques, such as water gilding, a clay-like substance called bole is applied before the adhesive to enhance the depth of the finish.

 

Trust the Experts at Wrights of Lymm for Your Gilding Needs 

Whether you’re embarking on a gilding project for the first time or are a seasoned professional, having the right gilding products is essential for achieving a high-quality finish. At Wrights of Lymm, we offer a wide range of gilding supplies, including premium gold and silver leaf sheets, specialised brushes, and the best adhesives and sealants on the market.

With decades of experience in the industry, we understand what it takes to create stunning gilded works. Our experts are always on hand to advise you on the best products for your specific project, ensuring a flawless result every time.

Contact us today to explore our full range of gilding products and services.