For centuries, artists and artisans have highlighted and sometimes swaddled entire architectural features, household objects, dinnerware, jewelry, iron fences and art with gold leaf. In addition to traditional gold leaf, liquid gold leaf paint is now available, and stenciling with liquid gold leaf paint is as easy as any other stenciling project. The results can be spectacular.
Instructions
1. Shop for the liquid gold leaf while considering the surface and desired effect. Paints containing red primer will result in an older looking finish. The bottle should note this.
There are several good liquid gold leaf paints available. You will find them in artists' supply stores, craft stores, and hardware stores. Most can be used on multiple surfaces, including metal, wood, prepared drywall, cloth, glass, plastic, and papier mache, but before purchasing, read the label to be sure the product you are considering will work on the surface you have in mind.
Also note if there are any special surface- preparation requirements.
2. Assemble your tools and materials and prepare the surface of the item you plan to stencil. Most products require only that the surface be clean and free of dust, but check the label on your chosen paint product.
3. Position your stencil on the surface to be decorated. Secure it with stencil adhesive (allow to dry after applying) or two pieces of painter's tape.
4. Pour some liquid gold leaf onto a saucer or palette and dip the tip of the brush into it. Daub it off on a paper towel until the brush is free of any excess paint. Paint seeps behind the stencil when there is too much paint on the brush. If necessary, you can add layers of paint, but do not overload the brush or skip daubing it off.
5. Test swirling and stippling techniques on a surface of the same type you will be working on before beginning the process. If you cannot use the same type of surface, use a piece of card stock.
To swirl, press and swirl the brush in small circles.
To stipple, lightly pounce the brush until the area is covered.
Choose one or the other based on your preference and begin painting.
6. Buff with a soft cloth when completely dry. If desired, seal your work with a non-yellowing shellac or varnish. Leave the stencil in place to prevent the sealer from showing up on surrounding areas, unless you plan to seal the entire object.
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