You can paint on top of gold leaf by first sealing it with a permanent varnish and then applying oil paints. Alternatively, you can apply the oil paint directly to the gold leaf and seal it after the paint has dried.
Preparing Gold Leaf for Painting
Before you can successfully paint on top of gold leaf, it's crucial to prepare the surface properly. Gold leaf is delicate and needs to be handled carefully to ensure your paint adheres well.
Here are the steps involved:
- Applying the Gold Leaf:
- Begin by applying the gold leaf to your desired surface using a suitable adhesive such as size or gilding adhesive.
- Once the adhesive is tacky, carefully apply the gold leaf sheets.
- Use a soft brush to gently press down and remove excess leaf.
- Sealing the Gold Leaf:
- Option 1 (Before Painting): Apply a thin coat of permanent varnish over the gold leaf to protect it. Ensure the varnish is completely dry before proceeding to paint.
- Option 2 (After Painting): You can paint directly onto the gold leaf and then seal with a varnish, but ensure the paint is completely dry before sealing, which can take up to 6 months.
Painting on Gold Leaf
Once the gold leaf is sealed, you can begin painting:
- Using Oil Paints:
- Oil paints are well-suited for painting on gold leaf. Their slow drying time allows for blending and smooth transitions.
- Apply the oil paints in thin layers.
- Allow each layer to dry before applying the next, especially if you've chosen to paint first and seal later.
- Consider your design:
- Think about how the gold leaf will interact with your colors. The underlying gold can add a beautiful luminosity to your painting.
Sealing After Painting (If Applicable)
If you've chosen to paint directly on the gold leaf:
- Drying Time: Ensure the oil paint is completely dry before sealing it with a varnish. This process can take a considerable amount of time – up to six months.
- Final Seal: Once the paint is fully cured, apply a thin coat of permanent varnish. This protects the paint and the gold leaf, ensuring the longevity of your artwork.
Summary Table
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Applying Gold Leaf | Carefully adhere gold leaf to the surface using appropriate adhesive. |
| 2a. Sealing before Painting | Apply a coat of varnish to seal the gold leaf (allow to dry) and then paint with oils. |
| 2b. Painting then Sealing | Directly paint with oil on the gold leaf and allow to dry completely (up to 6 months), then varnish. |
| 3. Painting | Use oil paints to create your desired design on the sealed surface. |
| 4. Sealing (If applicable) | Apply a final coat of varnish to protect the painting and gold leaf. |
By following these steps, you can successfully paint on top of gold leaf, creating stunning and durable artwork.
