How to Apply Gold Leaf - full instructions, professional results

[@taz7449]

One caveat for all the viewers interested in working with composition leaf or genuine silver leaf: If you're not painting or glazing over your applied leaf, don't ever touch the leaf with your bare fingers, as the oils from your skin will absolutely tarnish the leaf. You won't notice the tarnish until after you've sealed it with a clear coat, it develops over time; but there's no kind of remorse quite like discovering that mistake on a completed surface that you put hours of effort and artisanship into....(don't ask how I know this...) I always wear latex or vinyl disposable gloves when working with Dutch metal/composition leaf or genuine silver leaf). With genuine gold leaf or aluminum leaf it's not a problem, because neither can tarnish. Hope this helps, happy creating to all :)))

[@marcconley7037]

Onley if it's imitation gold leaf, I would assume

[@pinkibagchi7123]

Can we apply gold leaf to an oil painting ?

[@taz7449]

@@marcconley7037 composition leaf = imitation gold leaf; different names for the same product type...

[@taz7449]

@@pinkibagchi7123 absolutely you can, just know that if you use composition leaf, you'll need to seal it with a solvent-based clear coat (gloss preferred) like a quality varnish.

[@pinkibagchi7123]

Thankyou !! ❤️

[@guymansford7123]

Wow, what a model of clarity and helpfulness. If only more KZbinrs were this professional!

[@user-zu6li6de8z]

Pourinc auf Vasen

[@maureendiederich1586]

Everyone is an artist. Professional is how you feel. Expressions in the art is the importance. Never worry about skill.

[@dawnrosacker9432]

I agree very professional in your teaching methods. Artistic talent is not in doubt. Beautiful work.

[@pri22v11]

Couldn’t agree more!

[@rachelsremedies2602]

watched the whole video, now I know how to apply gold leaf. You go girl !!!

[@tula__]

This is the BEST tutorial of gold leaf application. I'm not sure why it has so low views compared to others that are as tacky as it can get but so popular. 🙂

[@melissagriggs-boling11]

This was one of the best teaching videos I've ever seen. You are so detailed and easy to follow.

[@bernadetteflynn5005]

Excellent tutorial. No faffing around, just clear instructions. So refreshing. Thank you. 👏👏👏🇮🇪

[@Meticularius]

5/14/2020 USA Grandpa Bill: In my 72 years this is the finest, most professional, most respectful, and most courteous video I have seen. Nancy, I think you are the best.

[@nancyreyner]

Thank you for your kind words!

[@guthraiel]

being an art student is looking up a tutorial less then 24 hours before a deadline lol 😭 thank you so much ma'am you've literally saved my life 🙏🙏

[@nancyreyner]

Glad to help!

[@corrneliamuller8019]

Absolutely fantastic tutorial and wonderfully detailed. Thank you very much. Will be watching it again and again. ❤

[@nancyreyner]

Wonderful!

[@Elainechris1]

Truly awesome video Nancy - one of THE BEST tutorials I've ever watched!!! Thank you, thank you!!

[@lonemapper]

I have been looking for a video like this for years. This is the most thorough of any art vid I have seen. Over the top great. Very generous!

[@nancyreyner]

I am very happy that my content is so helpful to you!

[@ApakmanMarquez]

There's a lot of really good tips here not only about gilding but also about painting. Thanks so much for sharing!

[@MichElle-sd6gj]

Thanks Nancy. Very articulate & plenty of tips. Thanks for your generosity--47 more thumbs up for those who thumb downed.

[@paulavetter4492]

Step by step with so many important tips. Thank you! Your art is beautiful.

[@nancyreyner]

Hi Kaitlin,To get clean edges with the leaf in a design make sure you do the following:(1) the adhesive should be very tacky when you apply the leaf. If your surface is very absorbent you may need 2 coats of adhesive to make sure the glue is strong enough.(2) let the adhesive dry for at least 20 minutes before applying the leaf. The adhesive should be tacky but not wet.(3) after applying the leaf make sure you burnish as shown in the video (over wax paper so the leaf isn't scratched) very hard so the leaf really sticks(4) you must wait at least 3 days after applying the leaf before removing the excess. This way the adhesive is fully dry. I like to wait a week.(5) when removing excess don't scrub hard, just lightly flick around the edges moving in the direction going away from the edges (moving from the shape outwards rather than the reverse). In the video I say I just brush over the whole surface, and I do, but if you want super clean edges you may want to take time here to brush each shape more delicately.Hope this helps!

[@georginacuriel6824]

Dear Nancy, I watched over and over your video on how to apply gold metal leaf. I thank you kindly for your generosity sharing your knowledge and experience. Truly yours, Georgina

[@kathleenhanan777]

Ok I know this was 8 yrs ago, but recently I saw a painting using gold leaf and wanted to try do something similar myself, and I am so ecstatic that I found and watched your video first.... What an amazing lesson. Now my mind is exploding with even more ideas.

[@nancyreyner]

So glad this video adds to your inspiration!

[@HeatherMaderArt]

Soooo much information! This was truly one of the most professional videos I've ever seen by an artist explaining one technique. So many gems in there. Thank you!

[@marciaernst3885]

By far the best video on how to use gold leaf! I finally understand the whole process. I'll be continuing on to your next video. Your paintings in the background are gorgeous!

[@estejaramar64]

Golf leafing was so hard to me until I watched this video THANK YOU,, THANK YOU for sharing your technique

[@Metaio83]

I just want to say that I LOVE that flamingo painting!!! It's simple, yet gorgeous!! Plain beautiful.

[@deborahbaca1345]

Best instruction video ever. Thank you for being so thorough. So many examples and great explanations, dos and don'ts, so helpful with a great delivery. Great teacher.

[@tonalharmony9266]

Ditto to that! This is the finest presentation that I've seen on any art-related subject on the web. Great job, Nancy!

I agree! Very great teachter!

[@nancyreyner8417]

I appreciate your taking the time to add a positive comment. Thank you! Glad you liked it.

[@pamelaricks2083]

@@nancyreyner8417 You are so kind to reply in great detail, about my entry ceiling. Super teacher. Thanks for helping this Georgia girl!

[@nancyreyner8417]

Pamela Ricks You are very welcome!

[@carlosclaptrix]

Wow, I love your precise way of talking!

[@documentdocument]

Best video I have ever seen on gold leafing. I think saved me a lot of headaches!!

[@SweetSoCalLife]

What an informative tutorial! I feel like I took a whole class without all the hassle. Very nice teaching aesthetic. TYSM!

[@inessagarder4452]

Nancy, I have returned to this video, like - 10 times, while preparing my canvases. This little record is GOLD in itself. My appreciation and gratitude for you choosing to post it for us here as a generous gift.

[@nancyreyner]

Hi Inessa, How kind of you to add your lovely comment to this thread. I am so glad you are finding this video 10 times helpful!

[@inessagarder4452]

Nancy Reyner 🙏💛

[@pallavibhandari4395]

Inessa Garder well said !! So true

[@lindasmiddy121]

Nancy, Wanted to thank you for your presentation. It’s fabulous and I’ve not watched all of it yet. After teaching for 36 years, I appreciate how you’ve organized your lesson. It gives learners much needed information without overloading and/or intimidating the novice artist. You are a just what I’m looking for in an instructor. Thank you for your knowledge and patience you’ve taken in your video. I will look for more from you.

[@nancyreyner]

You are so welcome!

[@sulatlalaki]

Fantastic tutorial! You really think of everything and "protect" the beginner/novice from his (or her) own ignorance! I took lots of notes and have been DYING to get started on my paintings!! I'm going to buy your book, Acrylic Illuminations, too!

[@Artfulthistlepie]

What an amazing video! You are a very good teacher!

[@maryringelstetter8018]

You, are a great teacher. Thorough, to the point, filled with the details necessary. Thank you!

[@pallavisreetambraparni6995]

Very well explained. I have always wanted to learn how to paint and use gold leaf

[@nancyreyner]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lukeswift7843]

Nancy, you're a godsend. I needed a fast, simple explanation of the process and yours was by far the clearer and most concise. Good thing i found you early in my search. I'll be able to finish my pieces in time. Many many thanks.

[@2023MindOverMatter]

Thank you for sharing this has become my new interest as I've been Accenting in Gold paint for years. I've looked everywhere for explanation and have found little, I'm so excited to go on this journey with you ❤

[@FIZZGIG-RARF]

Thank you so much for this demonstration! I learned a lot more than other tutorials I've watched about gold leaf. You make such gorgeous paintings!

[@ghostcityshelton9378]

I can't believe I watched this 49 min video and it was SOoooo Interresting that it seemed more like 10 min. and you taught us SO much in such a short time ! Thank you ! 😙💖

[@nancyreyner]

Wow what lovely feedback! I'm so glad you found my video interesting to watch. Thank you!

[@jammuna1]

A very comprehensive and in depth tutorial that is easy to follow. Really wonderful 👍

[@acbarahona]

Wow! I thought Gold leaf was just about gluing and painting. Thank you so much for this video. It has been very very helpful

[@mellio9077]

Wonderful video!! You're a great teacher. Thank you for sharing!

[@jeannevessard3510]

What a wonderful teacher you are! I very much enjoyed your presentation.

[@nancyreyner]

Thank you so much! Glad you like it.

[@efratcybulkiewicz5897]

it is the very first time i watched an entire video, you are a very pleasant lady with a very pleasant voice! i can watch you over and over again and still keep a smile on my face. very helpful, THANK YOU!

[@skeetarus]

You are such a good teacher! You explain things thouroughly without overdoing it. I'm learning so much from your videos, thank you.

[@maureengaudin2745]

Absolutely best metal leaf tutorial I’ve seen! Thank you Nancy!

[@brendamcdonald8699]

Excellent excellent teacher!!!😊

[@elmmills]

Great tutorial thanks. Homeschooling mum in NZ teaching children to make (cheap) icons, using gold leaf. Just had a look at our local library and they have your book! It's on hold now! Very happy watcher here :)

[@nancyreyner]

Great way to use my book! I love that you're teaching children to use the gold. Thanks for your comment.

[@2techshop]

Best video, I have ever seen! Thank you ...

[@NeilBriann]

An amazing, wonderful demo. I found myself nodding and responding - even chuckling at the ice cream container bits! 😂 Almost like I was in a sign-up tutorial class myself. Well done & thank you for inspiring me with this illuminating medium.

[@finakhan1038]

It’s my first time experiencing this gold leaf process. Thanks for explaining it so beautifully. I am in isolation with Covid 19 pandemic, enough of the depressing news. It’s a great time to learn new things.🙏🏻👍❤️

[@nancyreyner]

Glad it was helpful!

[@michaelroypizza]

Excellent teaching, Nancy.

[@stellabelikiewicz1523]

Thank you SO MUCH for providing such comprehensive and well laid out instructions! You have definitely reduced my fear of the gold leafing process (that wax paper trick alone is an absolute revelation!). I've added your book to my to-buy list, and I look forward to trying out all of the crazy painting techniques that I can possibly manage! Best of luck with your art career, and may the inspiration always be with you.

[@janathompson6790]

This is absolutely one of the BEST training videos I have ever watched. I have viewed many others through the years, but THIS one is the most informative, easy to watch, easy to listen to and comprehend. At first, when I saw the length of it, I thought it might be too long and drone on and on -- like too many others do. However, with yours every minute was worthwhile, and it is not filled with unnecessary blah, blah, blah. I came across your video by accident while researching the gold leafing process. I am so very happy I found it and you. I am now a true devotee off anything else you may produce in the future. I now am moving forward in attempting my own leafing projects with a lot less trepidation, but I will be holding on to this one for reference and technique reminders. I sometimes travel to Santa Fe, I know it well. If you have an actual studio where one can come visit, I would love to be able to do that sometime in the future. Thanks so much for creating such a beautifully produced, informative video. Enjoy your ice cream. You deserve it! Jana Scottsdale, AZ

[@nancyreyner]

Jana Thompson Dear Jana, What a lovely and complimentary note you wrote. I am so glad you have found the video useful for your work. Yes, I do have a studio in Santa Fe where I offer private lessons, and custom workshops for small groups. Please visit my website nancyreyner.com for more info on lessons, and other DVDs I have produced - some free like this one, and others are for sale. My latest book Acrylic Illuminations has an extensive section on gold leafing and painting techniques on leaf. Thanks again for taking the time to add your comment. Best, Nancy

[@doughtaylor8612]

Oh my, what an incredible teacher you are, Nancy. This has been so helpful for me, and so much fun, as well. Thank you for all your time and knowledge!

[@nancyreyner]

You are so welcome!

[@xanbex8324]

I like this woman....excellent instructor...appreciate your sharing...cheers!

[@annymus4660]

I know nothing about art and I don't draw either, but I watched a gold leaf making video and I was curious about it's uses. This is a very specific and thorough tutorial, I'm only half way through but I'm really enjoying watching it! And your art is amazing! ❤

[@urvashiverma7876]

Nancy you explained it so clear which left no confusion

[@L17B8]

I had to let you know that this video is the absolute best instructional video for gold leafing on KZbin! No contest! No one else knows what they’re doing. Bravo!

[@nancyreyner]

Wow thank you for your kind words! I'm very glad you liked the video.

[@L17B8]

I wish I could show you the painting I just completed. You really are quite amazing how you answer every question asked.

[@nancyreyner]

Dear Lorri, I am glad you wrote back to clarify. I misunderstood your first question about doing this technique on metals. I thought you were asking if you could paint on metal the same way you can paint on leaf. But now I see you are asking if you can add leaf onto metal as a surface. The issue is whether the leaf adhesive will adhere to the metal surface you are working on. The best advice I can give is to call the company that makes the adhesive you are using. Ask them if it will adhere to the type of metal surface you have in mind. You may have to use the solvent based adhesives (these are toxic) instead of the water-based adhesive I use in the video. The tech department of the adhesive manufacture can tell you for sure. You also asked about a color underneath the leaf - between the leaf and metal surface. Color under the leaf is nice if the leaf flakes off in places while you are working with the leaf, then the color comes through in subtle places and looks good. If you are using leaf on metal, then you will have the metal surface color coming through, and may like that instead of a color.

[@melittaramsey4705]

thank you especially for the environmental tip.. great detailed lesson. Much appreciated

[@schatzieme2]

Just letting you know how much I appreciate your video! I especially like the way you use the wax paper to put the leaf onto a surface. Thanks for your great ideas!

[@annaward3170]

This is one of the best tutorials I have seen- thank you

[@shirleylester304]

What a comprehensive, professional presentation, delivered so that even novices can proceed with confidence and ensure success! Thank you!

[@nancyreyner]

Thank you Shirley! Glad you liked it.

[@arjunbhandari2466]

Watching this in India. My liking for gold leaf got me to your video and loved how professionally and thoroughly you explained things. Im just beginning to paint, and god there's so much to learn 😅. Thank you so much. Fan of your art work too!!

[@lydiacr1]

YOU ARE SO AMAZING , GREAT TEACHER AND VERY PROFESSIONAL , THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING ALL YOUR EXPERIENCE WHICH MAKES REAL PROFESSIONALS... YOU COVER ALL THE IMPORTANT BASICS ON APPLYING GOLD LEAF! GREAT JOB!!!

[@nancyreyner8417]

Lydia what a lovely comment! I’m so glad you liked the video! Thank you for adding to the thread here.

[@zahiraalicea7655]

What an excellent teacher!!! I just found you and I am so happy!!!😊

[@maryjanethompsonthefirst]

Same

[@trinleywangmo]

...just now!

[@Jakieboysmom]

Thank you! Of all the "how to gold leaf" videos I've seen, yours is the best! I had no questions after watching your demonstrations! NONE! Thank you so much! I love your artwork, especially the picture of the cranes behind you❤

[@RandyGallegos]

Thorough and clear--wonderful! I'll be using this knowledge for the first time soon. Thank you so much.

[@YuvakTuladhar]

You are a great teacher! This is the best video I have seen on how to apply gold leaves! Thank you!!!

[@zoponex3224]

oh, my god, you've changed my life with that wax paper trick! fantastic video. thank you!

[@Eva-jk2dn]

This is one of the absolute best instructional videos I’ve ever come across!

[@nancyreyner]

Thank you so much!

[@sheilabartos5656]

Thank you so much, Nancy for this wonderful video and your method of sharing your knowledge, that I appreciate so much. Love your artwork. I've seen your videos several times already, because even watching you work is an art itself. Gorgeous pictures and colors. I'm going to buy your book too, so I can enjoy seeing your work any time I want to. One day I might give it a try using gold leaves. So beautiful! Thank you so much being so kind and inspiring.

[@kennyobrien]

Thank you so much for making this video. You answered ALL of my gold leaf questions that other videos didn't answer.

[@nancyreyner]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gila1959]

This was by far the best tutorial video I’ve come across , for the golden-world. Thanx so much for sharing !

[@nancyreyner]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dixi3150]

Thank you, thank you....I use to hate working with gold leave but now, after learning the "wax paper" trick.....I'm gilding and goldleaving all my paintings !!!! and they look great👍😆👍😆👍😆

[@carolinewaterstone2624]

That was phenomenal! I’ve just started to want to use gold leaf, so coming across your superb teaching was such a timely treat. Thank you, Caroline 😃

[@nancyreyner]

You are welcome. I think you meant Nancy not Caroline?

[@michelleaw1325]

Such a thorough and easy to understand tutorial on the method ,usage, techniques on gold leaf. Yay! I'm thinking about doing tears flowing from a drawing of my eyes, looking at my daughter who passed during covid . I always thought the adhesive had to be thin to adhere. After seeing your dripping method( which looks dimensional), I will practice on something before I attempt it on my drawing. Tks a million❤️

[@nancyreyner]

Have fun!

[@judithangerman]

You have the best video on gold leafing! So excellent!!!

[@nancyreyner]

Wow, thanks!

[@debrafischer807]

Thanks for the tips…just started using gold leaf in my paintings.

[@nancyreyner]

You are welcome!

[@snippetsforblog1729]

This is an excellent tutorial on all aspects of using metal leaf. Very informative and gives excellent tips to make it easier to use. Highly recommended

[@csilladevic9969]

This is the most amazing tutorial I have ever seen! Your art is amazing! Makes me wanna dabble into fine art 😍

[@nancyreyner]

Thank you so much 😀. What was your favourite part of the tutorial, Inkspire Art Studio?

[@marktan8500]

This video of yours deserves a double like!! Clear and useful information1 Easy to learn without skipping or anything! Really appreaciate your tutorial videos^^ Thank you!

[@rosgembrun]

Your works are beautiful, and an inspiration. Thank you for this tutorial.

[@NathanThompsonBlueEyes]

I love that you're very clear about what is being used and for what...very well prepared, useful video. Thumbs up all day!!! Thanks!!!

[@Taitcreates639]

Thank you Nancy, this is my very 1st video on gold leaf applying. I have some but have not used it as of yet. Your detailed tutorial was very well made and for beginners, very helpful. Thank you for your and excellence on this subject.

[@nancyreyner]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mozhgan77]

Thank you. I loved your way to explain it all. So clear, not slow nor fast. Bests.

[@skeetarus]

Brilliant! I learned so much. You're a great teacher, Nancy. Thanks!

[@popesuavecitoxii2379]

best and most thorough instruction I have found on gold leafing thanks!

[@nancyreyner]

Glad it was helpful! Please let me know how it turns out. 😊 What other techniques would you want to see in other videos?

[@chammikaiser7740]

Thank you so much Nancy. I was given some gold leaf but have never really used it. This was so informative and I am looking forward to giving it a try.

[@marykinser]

God bless you for taking the needed time to fully explain this. Merry Christmas

[@shirleyfunte3063]

Excellent presentation ! I could follow her prepping and presenting her procedures quite well. Thank you Nancy Reyner!

[@domingolumanog3795]

this is the best 49 minutes I have ever watched! Thank you -

[@nancyreyner]

Aww...thanks for making my day!

[@souzanemayes5670]

Excellent full teaching! Beautiful paintings behind you👏👏

[@Meow_meowHK]

Thank you so much for such a detailed tutorial on gold leaf!!

[@TinyAmor]

Yay! I'm from Albuquerque, new Mexico. Glad to see someone from new Mexico

[@andreasanfilippo27]

Just getting up my courage to work with leafing. After watching your video, I'm going to give it a try! Thank you so much!

[@lettyresendez7921]

You are an amazing teacher! Thank you!

[@mariaalmaangfortuno6146]

What a great help! Very clear and sharp! Thank you very much.

[@nancyreyner]

Glad you liked it!

[@Walestales1]

I've been teaching art for over 30 years and must say, you are a wonderful teacher. Thanks. I'm just starting to use gold leaf in my paintings.

[@susandodge5448]

Nancy thank you for your lesson. That was informative and inspirational. The artwork in the background is fabulous.

[@nancyreyner]

You are so welcome!

[@femmefatalexX1]

You’re such a kind person for making this! Thank you so mucn

[@tuyetpham8239]

The best teacher! 💕

[@nancyreyner]

Thank you, what specific aspect did ths video help you with?

[@deboralevy3074]

Nancy Reyner Is the best Teacher ever !!!

[@milham76]

Just about the best instructional video I have ever seen.

[@nancyreyner]

That's so generous of you, I'm flattered. Is there anything specific that your struggling with that might make a great instructional video for you next, Fiona?