Whether redesigning a home or refurbishing a room, removing aged gold leaf from molding can greatly update the look of a room. Removing gold leaf before you paint or stain the molding again allows you to restore a piece at a much higher quality. New paint or lacquer will adhere much better, and the overall appearance will be smoother and professional looking. Depending upon the size of the room, removing gold leaf is a task that can be accomplished in less than a day using the proper tools.
Instructions
1. Clean the molding thoroughly with a multi-purpose cleaner and a rag or cloth. Remove any dust or debris to help make the gold leaf removal process simple and effective. Allow the molding time to fully dry.
2. Scrape off the majority of gold leaf from the molding using a razor or fine scraper, both of which can be found at most hardware stores. Use caution when scraping in order not to damage the molding.
3. Remove any remaining gold leaf using paint stripper. Small cans of paint stripper can be found at most hardware stores. Spread a layer of newspaper around the work area to protect flooring and furniture. Apply a layer of paint stripper to the molding using a cloth or brush and allow it 10 minutes to take effect. Using the scraper or razor, scrape away the remaining gold leaf. Dispose of the cloth or brush as paint stripper is highly combustible.
4. Sand down the molding to remove any lasting gold leaf -- reaching small corners and edges -- and to smooth the overall surface of the molding. This will prepare the molding to receive new paint or lacquering.
Related posts
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 t...
Removing paint from a picture frame can be a challenging process. Often picture frames have intricate detail work, carvings, applied trims and other features that may be delicate or glued to the u...
Bring new life to an old coffee table, or add interest to a new table, by adding a gold leaf stencil. Applying gold leaf can be a tedious process, requiring painting a primer first, then adding th...
Apply Gold Leaf to a WallApplying gold leaf to a wall can add an elegant accent to your home. When choosing gold leaf, you can buy either imitation gold or genuine gold. The imitation gold leaf is...
Adding gold paint to your coffee table can turn an inexpensive and plain piece into a glimmering work of art. Achieving the effect you desire may take several coats and a steady hand to accomplish...
