Different Techniques For Gilding
Professional Long Island Antique Restoration
Gilding is the application of gold to wood, metal, glass or ceramic objects. Extension can also be a part of the gilding process and covers the application of copper or another metal that imitates gold. For example, a silver layer covered with a yellow varnish. When it comes to gilding, we use different techniques for different materials. As professionals in this field, we expertly use these techniques in order for the best use of gilding possible. Let's take a look at these different techniques and how gilding works for each material.
Gilding Metal
There are commonly 6 processes for gilding metal objects. This metal can be copper, tin, bronze, or others. The 6 techniques for gilding metal are:
- using mercury
- using a gilding paste
- by friction
- in a vacuum
- using a varnish
- by electrolysis
Gilding of Glass or Ceramic Objects
The gilding of glass or ceramic objects happens one of two ways. First gilding by way of fusion and second is gilding using a gilding paste. The most common method for gilding of glass or ceramic objects is through gilding by the way of fusion. With this technique, the gold leaf is placed on the glass or ceramic, while the temperature raises below the point of fusion for the object, but still high enough to melt the gold stuck to it.
When it comes to gilding using a gilding paste, this technique is primarily used for glass that has been used since antiquity. So it is not as common a method of antique restoration. With this technique, the glass object that is on the inside is covered with a gold leaf that is attached using a glue mixture. This gold leaf is engraved with a decorative design, then the glass is inserted into an external glass envelope and welded using heat.
Gilding of Stone and Marble Objects
The gilding of stone and marble happens by the application of the gold in the form of a gold leaf using a gilding paste. There is also the accompaniment of a varnish to help with the porosity of the object needing to be insulated. Gilding by way of friction is also used to cover and and porous stone.
Gilding Wood
When you are gilding wood, you do not place the gold leaf directly onto the bare wood, which will highlight the grain. That is not what you want the end result of a gild to do. Instead, there needs to be an intermediate layer between the wood and the gold leaf. This masks the surface aspects and diminishes the dimensional variations due to any humidity. In order to get the best results for gilding wood, there are two techniques you can use: gilding using water or gilding using a gilding paste.
When you are gilding using water, apply the gold leaf using water to the base. This acts as a glue, which when it comes in contact with the water regenerates. Then you can cover it with a light layer of skin glue, which helps to stick the coating. The gold then becomes matted and better resists wear and tear.
When you are gilding using a gilding paste, you use a water-bases paste. This paste produces a film that is thick, which can be difficult due to the fact that the contours of the metallic surface are less precise. However you have a longer time to complete the gilding.
Professional Antique Restoration
Luis Restorations offers professional antique restoration for all types of older objects and keepsakes. From silver to gold, we offer the gilding techniques that will bring your family heirlooms back to life. Get a quote for our gilding and restoration services today.
Get An Estimate
For more information about our restoration services and gilding services, please reach out to us today. The number for our office is 631-218-1384. When you call, we can provide you with a free consultation. During this conversation, we can go over exactly what we can do for you and your antique.