Marcus Chen
Gold leaf is a great way to add a touch of luxury to your artwork, but it can be tricky to work with. Gold leaf is available in both imitation and genuine gold varieties, and the type you use will determine whether or not you need to apply a varnish. Imitation gold leaf, which is typically made from copper, will tarnish over time and requires a sealant to protect it. Genuine gold leaf, on the other hand, will not tarnish and does not require varnishing, although some artists choose to do so for added protection. When it comes to varnishing gold leaf, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is recommended to use a sealant specifically designed for gold leaf to avoid tarnishing or dulling the leaf. Secondly, the type of varnish you use will depend on whether you are working with a water-based or solvent-based system, and whether you plan to use acrylic or oil paints. While some artists have had success with certain varnishes, others have found that certain products can discolour or tarnish the gold leaf, so it is important to do your research and test on a small area first.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Varnishing real gold leaf | Not recommended |
| Varnishing imitation gold leaf | Recommended to prevent tarnishing |
| Varnishing imitation gold leaf with water-based products | May cause tarnishing |
| Varnishing imitation gold leaf with solvent-based products | Recommended |
| Varnishing imitation gold leaf with acrylics | May cause tarnishing |
| Varnishing imitation gold leaf with oils | Will not cause tarnishing |
| Varnishing before or after painting imitation gold leaf | Before: to prevent tarnishing. After: for archival purposes |
| Varnishing gold leaf with gloss or matte | Gloss recommended to maintain shine |
| Varnishing gold leaf with spray or brush | Either works, but brush-on varnish can avoid overlap onto gold leaf |
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What You'll Learn
Gold leaf types: Real gold leaf vs imitation gold leaf
Gold leaf is a thin sheet of gold that can be used to decorate paintings, sculptures, and other objects. It is created by a meticulous process called goldbeating, in which gold is melted and cast into bars or strips, then rolled into thin ribbons and cut into small squares. These squares are placed between layers of special paper and hammered until they reach the desired thinness.
There are two main types of gold leaf: real gold leaf and imitation gold leaf. Real gold leaf is made from pure gold and offers a brilliant and attractive finish. It is more durable and long-lasting, even when exposed to external elements. However, it is more expensive and may be challenging to work with due to its high value.
On the other hand, imitation gold leaf, also known as Dutch gold, Dutch metal, or composition gold leaf, is made from metal alloys such as brass, copper, or zinc. It is significantly more affordable than real gold leaf and is easier to handle and work with. Imitation gold leaf provides the appearance of solid gold without the high cost.
Considerations when choosing between Real Gold Leaf and Imitation Gold Leaf:
When deciding between real gold leaf and imitation gold leaf for a project, there are several factors to consider:
- Durability: Real gold leaf is highly durable and can last for decades, even in exterior settings. Imitation gold leaf, on the other hand, is less durable and may require replacement after a few years of exposure to the elements.
- Tarnishing: Real gold leaf will not tarnish or oxidize over time. Imitation gold leaf, however, is susceptible to tarnishing and requires protective coatings to delay this process.
- Cost: Imitation gold leaf is much more affordable than real gold leaf due to the lower value of the metals used in its composition.
- Ease of Use: Imitation gold leaf is generally easier to handle and work with than real gold leaf, making it a popular choice for beginners and projects with large surface areas.
- Appearance: Real gold leaf offers a more brilliant and attractive finish compared to imitation gold leaf, which may not match the lustre and shine of genuine gold.
- Project Location: For interior gilding projects, imitation gold leaf can be a suitable choice, especially for areas that are out of reach and less likely to be touched or subjected to wear and tear. Real gold leaf is ideal for exterior projects where durability and resistance to tarnishing are crucial.
In summary, both real gold leaf and imitation gold leaf have their unique advantages and considerations. The choice between the two ultimately depends on factors such as project needs, budget, durability requirements, and the desired aesthetic outcome.
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Varnishing gold leaf: Pros and cons
Pros
Gold leaf, whether imitation or pure, is made of real metal that can tarnish over time. Varnishing gold leaf can protect it from dust, UV light, and the open air that can cause tarnishing. Varnishing can also provide additional protection against accidental scratches and scuffing.
Cons
Some sources advise against varnishing real gold leaf. Varnish can dull the gold leaf, especially if it is not the specific type of varnish used for gold leaf. Some varnishes can also cause the ink to run or turn yellow.
Additional Considerations
When using imitation gold leaf, it is important to seal it before painting with acrylics to prevent the leaf from tarnishing. It is recommended to use a gloss varnish to maintain the shine. However, some sources suggest using a matte varnish as the final layer if you do not like the look of gloss.
It is advisable to wait a few days to a week before varnishing to ensure that the size is dry. It is also recommended to use a brush to apply a thin layer of varnish gently and smoothly, being careful not to overlap with the gold leaf areas.
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Sealing gold leaf: Before or after painting?
Sealing gold leaf is an important step in preserving the artwork. Gold leaf, whether imitation or pure, is made of metal that can tarnish over time. Sealing the gold leaf will protect it from dust, UV light, and the open air, which can cause tarnishing.
When it comes to sealing gold leaf, there are a few different approaches you can take. Some artists choose to seal the gold leaf before painting, while others prefer to seal it after the painting is complete. Here are some considerations for each approach:
Sealing Gold Leaf Before Painting:
This method involves applying a sealant directly to the gold leaf before you begin painting. This can provide a protective barrier between the gold leaf and the paint, preventing any potential reactions between the two materials. It is important to use a sealant specifically designed for gold leaf, as other varnishes may tarnish or dull the appearance of the gold. After applying the sealant, you will need to wait for it to dry completely before beginning your painting. This method is especially useful if you plan to use acrylic paints, as acrylics contain ammonia which can tarnish the gold leaf.
Sealing Gold Leaf After Painting:
This approach involves completing your painting first and then sealing the gold leaf along with the surrounding paint. This method allows you to protect both the gold leaf and your artwork in one step. Again, it is crucial to use a sealant designed for gold leaf to avoid any tarnishing or dulling of the gold. Once your painting is dry, apply a thin layer of sealant to the gold leaf areas, being careful to smooth out your brushstrokes for a flat finish. It is okay if the sealant overlaps slightly onto the painted areas.
Regardless of the approach you choose, always ensure that your gold leaf and paint are completely dry before applying any sealants or varnishes. Additionally, when working with imitation gold leaf, sealing is necessary to prevent tarnishing. Pure gold leaf, on the other hand, does not require sealing but can be sealed for added protection and durability.
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Varnishing techniques: Spray vs brush
Spraying and brushing are two popular methods for varnishing paintings. Spray varnish can be used on oil and acrylic paintings, and it dries more quickly than liquid varnish. It is a good option when you need to varnish work swiftly or cannot protect a painting easily while the varnish is drying. Spray varnish is also a good choice if the painting's surface is fragile and could be damaged by brush application. If you have worked in an impasto style or with paint that has a rough texture, a spray will help you get an even coating of varnish and avoid the risk of creating bubbles or pools of varnish. You can apply up to 50 coats of spray varnish for an ultra-glossy look, although 2-3 coats are usually sufficient.
Brush varnishing, on the other hand, is preferred by many artists for the control it offers. Brushes are also versatile and can be used in a "picking-up" technique or to adjust spray application techniques. The quality of the brush plays a significant role in the outcome of the project, and selecting the right one depends on the type of varnish being used. For oil-based varnishes, use a natural bristle brush, such as a China bristle (hog's hair) brush. Natural bristles are excellent at holding and evenly distributing thicker, oil-based varnishes. For water-based varnishes, choose a synthetic bristle brush, typically made of nylon or polyester. Chisel-edge brushes are ideal for general varnishing as they provide control and even coverage. A sash brush, with its flagged-tip synthetic bristles, is great for getting into corners and detailed areas and works for both oil-based and water-based varnishes.
Before starting to brush varnish, prime the brush by dipping it in the appropriate solvent: mineral spirits for oil-based varnish and water for water-based varnish. This prevents the bristles from absorbing too much varnish too quickly and ensures a smoother flow, reducing the likelihood of streaks or uneven application. Additionally, priming makes cleaning the brush easier after use. Avoid shaking the varnish as it can introduce bubbles that can ruin the final finish; instead, stir gently to mix it thoroughly. For oil-based varnish, thin the first coat with 10-50% mineral spirits to improve penetration and make brushing easier.
When using either method, ensure the painting is completely dry before varnishing. For oil paintings, this means waiting for at least six months. You can test whether an oil painting is ready by gently rubbing a cotton bud dipped in Sansodor on an inconspicuous area. If no colour comes off on the cotton bud, you can proceed with varnishing.
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Varnish products: Water-based vs solvent-based
Before discussing the differences between water-based and solvent-based varnishes, it is important to note that the application of varnish on gold leaf depends on whether the gold leaf is imitation or real. Imitation gold leaf will tarnish over time and hence requires a varnish to protect it. Real gold leaf, on the other hand, does not need to be varnished as it will not tarnish. However, some artists choose to apply a varnish over real gold leaf for added protection against accidental scratches or scuffing.
Now, let's move on to the comparison between water-based and solvent-based varnishes:
Water-based varnishes are a newer type of varnish that is less toxic and more environmentally friendly than solvent-based varnishes. They are easy to apply and can be used on various surfaces. One of their main advantages is that they do not release harmful fumes. However, water-based varnishes are less durable than solvent-based varnishes and are not suitable for all types of surfaces. When choosing a water-based varnish, look for products that offer different strengths and resistance levels to weather, abrasion, and shock. Polyurethane and poly acrylic are two common types of water-based varnishes. Polyurethane is known for its durability and protective qualities, while poly acrylic provides similar results with a different resin molecule.
Solvent-based varnishes, also known as oil-based varnishes, are the most common type of varnish. They are highly durable and can be applied to a wide range of surfaces. However, one of their main drawbacks is their toxicity. Solvent-based varnishes contain solvents that can be harmful to your health if exposed to them over a long period. When working with solvent-based varnishes, ensure proper ventilation and personal protective equipment to minimize the health risks associated with their use.
In summary, water-based varnishes are a more environmentally friendly and safer option, but they may not offer the same level of durability and surface compatibility as solvent-based varnishes. Solvent-based varnishes provide excellent durability and can be used on various surfaces, but they come with the trade-off of higher toxicity and potential health risks. When deciding between the two, consider the specific requirements of your project, the level of protection needed, and the types of surfaces you will be working with.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can put gold leaf on a varnished painting. However, it is recommended to wait for the varnish to dry before applying the gold leaf.
There are two types of gold leaf: imitation gold leaf and real gold leaf. Imitation gold leaf is prone to tarnishing and requires a sealant or varnish, whereas real gold leaf will not tarnish and does not require a varnish.
It is recommended to use a gloss varnish instead of a matte varnish to maintain the glossy shine of the imitation gold leaf. Avoid using water-based varnishes as they can cause the imitation gold leaf to tarnish quickly. Instead, opt for a solvent-based varnish or a sealant specifically made for gold leaf.
Yes, you can paint over gold leaf with acrylics or oils. If using imitation gold leaf, it is recommended to seal it with a varnish or sealant before painting to prevent tarnishing. If using real gold leaf, you can paint directly on it without sealing.
