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A Beginner’s Guide to Gilding a Weathervane with Gold Leaf
- by Sam Wozniak
Why Gild a Weathervane?
If you’re new to the art of gilding, applying gold leaf to a weathervane can be an incredibly rewarding and visually stunning project. Not only does it elevate the aesthetic of a property, but it also ties into the time-honoured tradition of monumental restoration. Weathervanes—often perched atop historic buildings, barns, or bespoke homes—make the perfect canvas for showcasing 23.5 or 24 carat goldleaf brilliance.
Whether you’re a hobbyist or restoring a historic piece, this blog post walks you through the process, using beginner-friendly methods and optimizing for longevity and sparkle.
Choosing the Right Gold Leaf: 23.5 vs 24 Carat
For a project like a weathervane, carat choice matters. While both 23.5 carat and 24 carat gold leaf offer exceptional radiance, 23.5 carat is often preferred for exterior applications. It provides adequate resistance to weathering and oxidation due to its trace alloy composition, whilst also proving a slightly more cost effective option for larger scale projects.
Tools & Materials Needed for Gilding a Weathervane
To successfully complete this gilding project, you’ll need the following:
Step-by-Step: Gilding a Weathervane
1. Clean & Prepare the Surface
Before applying any goldleaf, make sure the weathervane is clean, dry, and free of rust or paint flakes. If it’s part of a restoration project, strip any old paint and prime the metal for adhesion. A red or yellow bole (clay base) can be applied to enhance the gold’s warmth.
2. Apply the Gilding Size
Use an oil-based size for outdoor gilding. Brush it evenly over the entire surface of the weathervane. Timing is crucial—let the size cure until it’s just tacky (the timing for this will depend on the product used). It should feel slightly tacky (similar to that of a post-it note) and not wet.
3. Handle the Gold Leaf Properly
With clean hands or cotton gloves, use a gilder’s tip to pick up the delicate gold leaf from the cushion. Avoid touching the leaf with bare hands, as it can easily tear or disintegrate.
4. Apply the Gold Leaf
Lay the goldleaf gently onto the tacky surface. Work in small sections to ensure even coverage. Don’t worry if the leaf overhangs—this will be brushed away later. Press gently with a gilders mop to secure it, working the leaf into intricate details.
5. Burnish & Touch-Up
After the gold leaf has adhered, gently brush away excess with a gilders mop. If needed, add more goldleaf to cover missed areas. For weatherproofing, some artisans apply a clear protective sealer, though many prefer to leave 24 carat gold leaf unsealed to allow for natural patination over time.
Caring for a Gilded Weathervane
One of the main advantages of using 23.5 carat or 24 carat gold leaf is its resistance to tarnishing. However, environmental elements will eventually soften its brilliance. For monumental pieces, periodic maintenance or re-gilding every couple of decades may be necessary.
If the weathervane becomes heavily weathered, the gilding can be restored using the same steps—this makes it an excellent candidate for heritage restoration.
Why Gold Leaf is Ideal for Monumental Features
Gold leaf’s reflective quality catches the sun at great heights, making it ideal for weathervanes and other monumental architectural details. Unlike paint, goldleaf doesn't fade or chip in the same way, ensuring long-lasting beauty that only improves with age.
Conclusion: Bring Your Weathervane to Life with Gold Leaf
Whether enhancing a new piece or breathing life into a heritage feature, applying 23.5 or 24 carat gold leaf to a weathervane is a timeless technique. This beginner-friendly gilding guide offers a practical path toward mastering exterior goldleaf projects—blending artistry, history, and craftsmanship.
Start with a small project, and you’ll quickly discover why gilding has been trusted for centuries to bring monumental elements to life.
