A simple guide to gilding a frame
Gilding is the technique used for applying a very thin coating of gold leaf to solid surfaces, such as a the surface of a frame. At FRAME, we think gilded frames provide a timeless, decadent touch to plain walls. Gilding can be opulent or playful or simply elevate the colours in your artwork.
As part of our commitment to conservation framing and fine hand-crafted techniques, we work with David Hegarty, who was formerly head framer and in-house gilder at the Royal Academy of Arts. He is a true specialist and expert in the intricate processes of this decorative art.
In this article, we’ll show you a brief overview of applying 23.5 carat loose gold leaf to a 2.5 metre square reverse angled frame - which now lives on the wall of a beautiful hotel in Macao.
Step 1. Gesso
After joining and sanding the frame, 8-10 layers of gesso are applied to the area which will be gilded. Gesso is a white paint mixture which includes a glue or binder mixed with whiting powder. It’s often used in making artwork as a preparation base layer for paint (on wood and canvas for example) so that other materials can be applied over it.
Step 2. Hand sand
After drying, the gesso is then wet sanded, before being sanded by hand. This gives a completely smooth and blemish-free finish.
Step 3. Black bole
Next a coloured bole is applied. This is a type of coloured clay, often used under gold leaf. In this case the black bole is used under yellow-gold leaf, for a contemporary look.
Step 4. Gold leaf
Golden time! We then apply 23.5 loose gold leaf to the frame. The frame surface is moistened with water and the gold leaf is then applied with a flat brush.
Step 5. Burnish
We then burnish the frame, which is the process of rubbing back the loose matte gold leaf to produce a high shine gold leaf effect. The leaf can then be rubbed back, or 'distressed' for a more 'classic' look. To achieve a more solid gold finish, the gilding process is sometimes repeated for a second time.
Step 6. Wax and buff
The final stage of the process is waxing and buffing. This gives a smooth, clean finish, and seals the finish against minor handling marks. This age-old process is done laboriously by hand and gives a bespoke, timeless finish to complement and enhance your artwork.
If you’re thinking about a gilded frame for your next project, we offer a diverse range of traditional water-gilded gesso finishes in 12 and 22 carat yellow, white and moon gold. You can also choose from full coverage or combine with simple washes of colour. Please contact us to find out more.