How to Do Water Gilding

Apply gesso to the project. Gesso is a mixture of calcium carbonate and hide glue. The mixture can change drastically between projects, so it is important to experiment with your gesso. When you apply gesso you will need to apply between 10 and 15 coats. This is because after it's dry you will sand the gesso down. If the coating of gesso is too thin, then you will sand through it.

Apply bole. Bole is a mixture of clay and glue. While it is possible to mix your own bole, it is strongly recommended that beginners use premixed bole. Different colors of bole have different purposes. Black bole will absorb light somewhat, making sure that the glare of a project is not too bright in sunlight. Yellow bole will effectively hide any mistakes the gilder makes by hiding the spots that the gilder missed. Yellow bole is recommended for beginners.

Apply the gold leaf. This is a delicate process and requires the right tools. First saw the leaf on your pad using the gilder's knife. Grease your gilder's tip. Do this lightly by gently spreading a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the back of your hand and lightly stroking it with the gilder's tip. This is how the leaf clings to the tip. Gently pick up the leaf with your tip. Brush water over the area the leaf is to be applied, add the leaf and pat with cotton.