Lesson 1

This lesson is an introduction to basic gilding techniques, looking at various ways of applying gold flat on the page. We’ll consider the advantages and disadvantages of each gilding size and how best to apply them. A design has been provided to practice the techniques used in all four lessons but creativity is welcomed.

 

Lesson 2

Raised gilding is always more challenging. This lesson will consider three ways of achieving raised areas of gold in your design. The first is manuscript gesso. Comprehensive instructions will be giving, allowing students to make, lay and burnish this traditional plaster base to achieve the elusive mirror shine. The other two methods use modern ‘off the shelf’ products, giving three different gilded finishes.

 

Lesson 3

The first half of this lesson will be used to look at the gilding results from the previous two lessons, answering questions and problem solving if necessary. We’ll then look at ways of combining flat and raised gilding and using tooling to embellish the gold leaf.

 

Lesson 4

Again, there will be time set aside for questions at the beginning of class. We’ll then go on to complete our design with painting in watercolour and, if time allows, talk about the use of other metal leaves.