Learn by Technique
Choose the method that matches your project and finish
Gilding can be approached in many different ways depending on the surface, the leaf, the adhesive, and the final appearance you want to achieve. This page helps you start with the technique first, then move into the right materials, tutorials, and project guidance.
Start with the Technique
Some techniques are simple and beginner-friendly, while others require traditional preparation, precise timing, or specialty materials. Use this page to compare the main gilding methods and choose the best path for your work.
Featured Gilding Techniques
Oil Gilding
Durable gilding for interior, exterior, architectural, and sign work.
Water Gilding
Traditional bole and gesso system for burnished gold finishes.
Glass Gilding
Reverse gilding for glass signs, mirrors, and decorative panels.
Metal Leaf
Approachable decorative gilding using imitation gold, silver, copper, and variegated leaf.
Illumination
Fine-detail gilding for lettering, manuscripts, calligraphy, and sacred art.
Antiquing
Patinas, glazes, and finishing effects for aged or softened gilded surfaces.
How to Choose a Technique
Step 1: Start with the surface.
Wood, glass, metal, plaster, stone, and paper each require different preparation.
Step 2: Match the adhesive.
Oil size, water-based size, gelatin size, and traditional glues each behave differently.
Step 3: Choose the finish.
Matte, bright, burnished, antique, exterior, or decorative finishes require different systems.
Technique Learning Routes
Beginner-Friendly
Start with metal leaf, water-based size, simple tools, and decorative projects.
Project-Based
Choose a technique based on glass, frames, signs, furniture, exterior work, or restoration.
Traditional Methods
Move into water gilding, gesso, bole, burnishing, iconography, and restoration systems.
Professional Insight
Technique should always follow the project. A simple decorative surface may only need metal leaf and water-based size, while exterior work, glass gilding, restoration, or burnished finishes require more specialized systems.
The best results come from matching the method to the surface, the environment, and the finish you want before choosing materials.
Shop by Project
Glass Gilding
Reverse gilding, verre églomisé, signage, and decorative glass work.
Exterior Gilding
Built for durability, using genuine gold and oil-based systems for long-term outdoor performance.
Frames & Furniture
A perfect place to start—high visual impact, approachable techniques, and strong project results.
Sign Gilding
Traditional techniques for lettering, glass, and dimensional signage with lasting impact.
Clay & Sculpture
Designed for ceramic, sculptural, and mixed-media work with flexible techniques and creative finishes.
Restoration
For restoration work where genuine gold, durability, and precise technique are essential.
Start with Kits
The easiest way to begin! Complete systems that remove guesswork and help you get better results from your first project.
Buy Genuine Gold
For restoration, high-end work, and projects where durability, permanence, and finish quality matter.
Learn Through a Class
Guided instruction with experienced gilders. Build skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the craft.
Browse All Materials
Go directly to gold leaf, sizes, tools, and specialty products across the full catalog.
