Will Gold Leaf Stick to Acrylic Paint
Yes, gold leaf can adhere to various surfaces such as paint, bole, or gesso, depending on the interior gilding technique and the adhesive used. Here’s an overview of how gold leaf interacts with these materials and how they are used in gilding:
1. Paint
- Surface Preparation: Gold leaf can adhere to painted surfaces if they are properly prepared. The paint should be smooth, clean, and dry. A slightly tacky adhesive or size (water-based or oil-based) is typically applied over the paint to hold the gold leaf in place.
- Best Practices: Use paint that is not too porous or textured. Matte or eggshell finishes work well as they allow better adhesion compared to glossy finishes.
2. Bole
- What It Is: Bole is a clay-like substance traditionally used as a base for gilding. It is typically colored (red, yellow, or black) and serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, providing a smooth and warm-toned surface that enhances the brilliance of the gold.
- Application: Apply bole over a layer of gesso, and smooth it thoroughly. Once dry, it should be lightly polished before applying gold leaf.
- Gold Leaf Adherence: Bole is often activated by dampening it with water before applying the gold leaf. The gold adheres to the slightly tacky surface when pressed.
3. Gesso
- What It Is: Gesso is a mixture of chalk and glue, used as a base coat to create a smooth, hard surface. It is common in traditional water gilding techniques.
- Application: Multiple layers of gesso are applied to the surface and sanded smooth. Bole is often applied over the gesso before gilding.
- Gold Leaf Adherence: Gesso provides a stable and smooth foundation for bole and gold leaf. Without bole, gesso itself can hold gold leaf if a suitable adhesive or size is used.
4. Interior Gilding Techniques
- Water Gilding: This involves applying gold leaf over bole, which has been slightly dampened to reactivate the glue in the bole. This technique is used for highly reflective, mirror-like finishes.
- Oil Gilding: In this method, an oil-based adhesive or size is used. It is less delicate than water gilding and suitable for surfaces like painted walls, furniture, or areas exposed to wear.
- Modern Adhesives: Water-based gilding adhesives are popular for interior gilding as they are easier to use and clean up than oil-based sizes.
Tips for Successful Interior Gilding:
- Surface Smoothness: Always ensure the surface is smooth and well-prepared. Any imperfections will be highlighted by the gold leaf.
- Adhesive Timing: Follow the adhesive’s timing instructions carefully. Applying gold leaf too early or late can compromise adhesion.
- Burnishing: For water gilding, the gold can be burnished with an agate tool to create a shiny finish. Oil gilding does not allow for burnishing.
- Sealing: In areas prone to handling or wear, seal the gold leaf with a protective clear coat, although this may slightly reduce its brilliance.
Gold leaf is versatile and can be used with various techniques to achieve stunning results in interior gilding projects.
