Which Glue for Gold Leaf – Gold Leaf Glue – Gold Leaf Adhesive – Gold Leaf Sizing – Water-based Sizing
Using the right adhesive and preparation materials for applying gold leaf is essential to achieving a durable and aesthetically pleasing gilded surface. Here’s an overview of commonly used adhesives and preparatory layers, such as bole and gesso:
1. Glue for Gold Leaf
The adhesive used to adhere gold leaf to a surface is known as size. There are different types depending on the gilding method:
Water-Based Size (Gelatin Size)
- Used in traditional water gilding.
- Made from animal hide glue or gelatin, which is mixed with water and sometimes a small amount of alcohol.
- Provides a tacky surface for the gold leaf to adhere to after being wetted.
- Suitable for projects requiring high precision and smooth finishes, such as fine art and gilded picture frames.
Oil-Based Size
- Used in oil gilding.
- Comes in quick-drying (1–3 hours) or slow-drying (12–24 hours) formulations.
- Ideal for surfaces like wood, metal, or stone where durability is needed, such as outdoor signs and architectural features.
- Provides a robust adhesion but does not allow for burnishing.
Acrylic Gilding Adhesive
- A modern, water-based adhesive that is user-friendly and less toxic.
- Suitable for both genuine and imitation gold leaf.
- Often used for crafts and small projects.
Gilding Size Adhesive Pens
- These are convenient markers filled with sizing adhesive, allowing for precise application without the need for brushes or rollers. They are handy for small projects or detailed work.
When selecting a gold leaf adhesive, consider factors such as the type of surface you’re working with, the desired drying time, and whether the project will be exposed to outdoor elements or moisture. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for best results, as application methods and drying times can vary depending on the type of sizing used. Additionally, ensure that the surface is properly prepared and free from any contaminants before applying the adhesive and gold leaf.
2. Bole
Bole is a clay-like substance used as a base layer beneath gold leaf, especially in traditional water gilding. It serves multiple purposes:
- Smooth Surface: Provides an ultra-smooth base for the gold leaf to adhere to.
- Warm Tone: Adds depth and warmth to the final gilded surface (typically in red or yellow tones).
- Burnishing: Makes the surface suitable for burnishing with an agate tool.
Types of Bole
- Traditional Bole: Made from naturally occurring clays mixed with hide glue.
- Modern Bole: Pre-mixed and ready to use, often made from synthetic materials.
Application
- Applied over a prepared surface (usually gesso), it is built up in thin layers and polished smooth before applying size.
3. Gesso
Gesso is a primer used as the first layer in gilding projects to prepare porous surfaces like wood for further treatment.
Traditional Gesso
- Made from rabbit-skin glue, chalk, and water.
- Applied in multiple layers and sanded to create a smooth, absorbent surface for bole and gold leaf.
Modern Gesso
- Acrylic-based and ready-to-use.
- Easier to apply and more versatile but may not provide the same absorbency and adhesion as traditional gesso.
Application
- Sand the base material (e.g., wood) to ensure smoothness.
- Apply several coats of gesso, allowing each coat to dry before lightly sanding for an ultra-smooth surface.
Best Combinations
- For Traditional Water Gilding:
- Gesso: Rabbit-skin glue-based.
- Bole: Traditional clay bole in red or yellow tones.
- Size: Water-based gelatin size.
- For Oil Gilding:
- Skip gesso and bole for non-porous surfaces.
- Use oil-based size directly on the prepared surface.
- For Craft Projects:
- Acrylic gesso as a primer.
- Modern acrylic gilding adhesive for applying the leaf.
Tips for Success
- Always sand and polish gesso and bole layers for optimal smoothness.
- Apply size sparingly to avoid puddles that might distort the gold leaf.
- Experiment with different bole colors to achieve unique tones under the gold leaf.
Would you like specific recipes for traditional bole or gesso, or advice on selecting adhesives for a particular project?
SeppLeaf offers a comprehensive range of adhesives and related products for gilding applications. Here are some of their offerings:
LeFranc 12 Hour No-Lead Size
An oil-based adhesive that reaches tack in 12-18 hours and remains open for gilding up to 12 hours. Suitable for both interior and exterior projects.
https://seppleaf.com/files/seppleafproducts/SeppLeaf_Gilding_Sizes_Gilding_Adhesives_201807.pdf
LeFranc 3 Hour Size
An oil-based size that reaches tack in 1.5-3 hours and remains open for gilding up to 2-3 hours. Ideal for projects requiring a shorter tack time.
https://seppleaf.com/files/seppleafproducts/SeppLeaf_Gilding_Sizes_Gilding_Adhesives_201807.pdf
Dux Water Based Size
A clear, water-based adhesive suitable for all interior gilding projects. It reaches tack in 15-20 minutes and remains open indefinitely.
https://seppleaf.com/files/seppleafproducts/SeppLeaf_Gilding_Sizes_Gilding_Adhesives_201807.pdf
Wunda Size
A synthetic, water-based size that reaches tack in 15-20 minutes and remains open indefinitely. Emission-safe with minimal toxicity, making it suitable for interior gilding projects.
https://seppleaf.com/files/seppleafproducts/SeppLeaf_Gilding_Sizes_Gilding_Adhesives_201807.pdf
Gelatin Glue
Traditionally used to make size for water gilding. Dissolve in water below boiling point to create the adhesive; the more powder added, the stronger the adhesion.
https://seppleaf.com/products/supplies/glues/gelatin
These products cater to various gilding techniques, including oil gilding and water gilding, providing artisans with the necessary materials for their specific project requirements.