How To Use Gold Leaf - What Glue Is The Best?

Gold Leaf - amzn.to/2v5k5Km / ebay.to/2DfnJEB
Gold Leaf Adhesive - amzn.to/2hunIq3
1:45 - Testing PVA / 3:50 - Results
3:00 - Testing Quickie Glue Pen / 4:24 - Results
5:30 - Testing Glue Stick / 7:04 - Results
6:20 - Testing Adhesive Size / 8:48 - Results
9:40 - All 4 Glues Compared
I tested 4 different types of adhesive with gold leaf. This experiment was to find what was the best but also what glue can you use.
In the experiment we tested PVA, Quickie Glue Pen, Glue Stick and Adhesive Size (the stuff you are meant to use).
---------
GEAR USED:
Camera: Panasonic G85 (US) amzn.to/2GpRCIw | (UK) amzn.to/2Xg7dOo
Lens: 12-60 Kit Lens
Lens: Leica DG Summilux 25mm f/1.4 (US) amzn.to/2QT7aJ5 | (UK) amzn.to/2v7HbRr
Lens: Olympus Zuiko 60mm f/2.8 (US) amzn.to/2VcOa6O | (UK) amzn.to/2V12pPA
Mic: Rode Video Mic Go (US) amzn.to/2Sdr12I | (UK) amzn.to/2DfVyHU
Lighting: Godox SL-60W CRI 95+ LED Video Light (US) amzn.to/2ElMJxg | (UK) amzn.to/2v8A23u
Cheap Photo Studio Kit (US) amzn.to/2UQgtZk | (UK) amzn.to/2UmTHqz

[@laylael5106]

This was the perfect video to demonstrate exactly what I wanted to know. Without any crap in between. Thanks.

[@annemcginn1086]

I agree entirely

[@ettia.3916]

YES!!! To the point and info I needed.

[@antinaturaa]

Yes, samee

[@janewx1]

That’s definitely not real gold leaf. 100 pack will run you about $80

[@TheCraftydevilSpeaks]

I’m glad to see someone show that there are cheaper alternatives to the expensive gilding glue. If your working with genuine leaf, which is very expensive, then stick with the real deal for adhesive, but if your working with imitation leaf or guilding flakes, PVA tacky glue, DecoArt paint adhesion medium, or any water based glue that says “stays tacky” works depending on the surface it also has no odor which is why I don’t like the guilding glue. On glazed ceramics I prefer the DecoArt because it’s made for slick surfaces. On porous surfaces like unglazed ceramics, wood or canvas, I seal it first with slightly watered down gesso or acrylic paint (to heavy cream consistency)and apply as smoothly as possible. After the paint drys, If you still have brushstrokes showing, try gently rubbing them out with a piece of brown paper bag, then apply the tacky glue or medium. Some helpful suggestions: the smoother you apply the glue the smoother the finish. Use a dampened softer brush to apply the glue. If your surface is coarse and you want a smoother guild, water down some gesso a little and coat the surface to fill in the pores. Let that dry thoroughly first before applying the glue. Apply the glue thinly and smooth out as much as possible. If you want texture, use a coarser brush and the way you stroke the glue on is the way the guild will show it. When the glue is tacky, lay the foil on gently with a very soft brush as smoothly as possible starting from one end on over. Pat down gently and let it rest for a few minutes, then burnish gently with a soft brush until it shines up. Fill in gaps with the pieces. If the leaf won’t stick to spots, reapply a thin dot of glue, smooth out (ok to go over edge of a guided spot) and repeat the process. Tacky glue works, tacky medium works ( but a little hard to get a really smooth finish because it’s really thick which is ok if you want that look ie: stenciling or texturizing) spray adhesive works but does smell significantly and needs to be sprayed in a well ventilated area for large projects. For small hard surface projects I use clear nail polish to top coat, other small surfaces I use Ranger Glossy Accents or DecoArt DuraClear high gloss. Large projects like picture frames and outdoor signs I top coat with Varathane ultimate Spar Urethane which is UV protective, water based, seals out water, mold and mildew and is low odor. It also comes in satin or gloss and works really well for wood.

[@sarahschwass8618]

If I wanted to write words on a dried acrylic pour, what would be the best adhesive for fine controlled writing using imitation gold leaf sheets?

[@TheCraftydevilSpeaks]

@@sarahschwass8618 I don’t know for sure because I have never tried it, so you will have to experiment a bit. My first go to product to try would be the Decoart medium for slick surfaces.

[@amandajones6481]

Dear CraftyDevil, thank you for sharing that information with us. I'm going to buy a bottle of the Deco Art glue, I've used other Deco Art products before and they're all really good. Do you know if the Deco Art Medium is available from Amazon? And, is it called Deco Art Medium or Deco Art Glue? Thanks again, love from Amanda Jones in Australia

[@paulwhite6322]

@@sarahschwass8618 a ZIG 2 way glue pen with fine tip will be perfect for lettering. I make fine gold lines on glazed ceramic pots. They also make a chiseled tip for thicker lines.

[@kittyconnolly1048]

I use PVA watered down to a half and half mix, leave it to go tacky then place the leaf on, leave to let the leaf rest into the PVA, then brush for a smooth finish.

[@melissaschoon1532]

Ashley

[@melissaschoon1532]

Iza

[@melissaschoon1532]

Esther

[@davidbrunsdon6518]

Melissa

[@ixcharliq.-8762]

John

[@edagroup]

Thankyou so much, better than the so called experts that just talked and talked and showed nothing.

[@craftinmom]

Thank you, exactly what I needed to know with out extra nonsense, cats walking across the surface and discussion about anything other than the glue and how it worked!

[@KitKatSukiKat]

Lol 😂

[@UYDesigns]

Thank you so much for this I thought I needed fancy glue for my gold leaf. Now that we have that sorted out I can get to work!

[@epictho]

Awesome video explaining what I needed to know. I’ve found it so hard to find genuine information on what glue to use, thanks!!

[@lynnreynolds905]

He should be using a makeup brush the brush he has it scratching up the gold dulling it out.

[@sharon94503]

The video is about the glue though, not finishing.

[@PSiLy-hn4xz]

I think he likes the roughness of it. Texture

[@Valerie-uw8hz]

Thank you so much! I’ve been searching all of KZbin to find out what kind of glue to use! Exactly what I was looking for!

[@mpetersen2586]

A wonderful explanation...first time with gold leafing and glad to know I don’t have to spend a fortune on supplies! Thank you!😁

[@mackenzydan9279]

Gold leaf adds a hint of glamour to anything it is applied to, whether that be a vase, picture frame, or furniture. To show you how to apply gold leaf. This is nice technique may be made on different surfaces.

[@cup1207cake]

Trying out gold foil for the first time, this was a great video, thank you. For the explanations and demonstrations!

[@flgirl250]

Thank you very much! I’m a first time user for Gold Leaf.

[@branchen6299]

Many years ago, I would use a picture frame (with glass), trace or draw a picture with ink on the smooth side of the glass. Then I would use an adhesive spay and either gold or silver leaf on top of it...made for some interesting decorative pictures. Using brown or blue inks also added to the flavor.

[@bellajade25]

THANK YOU for this video. I was having trouble getting my leafing to stay down, but no worries!💃🏾💃🏾

[@queenfajita]

Great to know. Gonna be using gold leaf for first time and was a bit nervous. Thanks

[@bleugaze]

This video was so well put together and easy to watch. I learned everything I was trying to, thank you. Do you know which adhesive works best on glass?

[@shaelynb3090]

Exactly what I was looking for!

[@nicolerihner5767]

Thank YOU for this great, informative, easy to watch tutorial⚜️

[@ThisDesignedThat]

thanks Nicole

[@gailbemrose248]

This was just what I was looking for, only have a little bit to do. Thanks

[@LycandaArt]

Lycandaart 1 second ago exactly what I needed to know. This video is perfect. Thank you

[@mhooper12000]

Thank you for posting this! I wanted to just try out gold leafing to see if it’s something I like, but didn’t want to buy the glue in case I don’t care for it. I’ll give it a shot now with glue I’ve already got:)

[@ferozadawood4424]

I found this VERY helpful. Thank you

[@MsMarnz01]

Thank you, particularly helpful right now knowing I have the option to use whats already in the house

[@chinesechance]

I love that you did this video! Thank you! 😊

[@overlaygoldenhandmade2338]

I also like apply gold leaf for painting very much, your video is helpful for me. THANKS.

[@andreagossmann1898]

This was AWESOME! EXACTLY what I wanted to know! Simple and straightforward. I only want to add bits to collage, so no "professional" anything, just messing about so I didn't want/need to buy and special glues, you've shown me Incan just use what I have! Thanks!

[@evansmungai6384]

Love this video. So informative and easy. I'm trying it today

[@barbarajohansennewman6060]

Thank you! Nice instructive video.

[@judichristopher4604]

WOW Great tutorial Thank you for sharing

[@faydennison5142]

Thank you for doing this. Answered my questions

[@apramla4603]

Really helpful vedio for beginners. Thank you so much for this vedio.

[@frmrhart5121]

This video was super helpful for me! Thank u so much

[@mdmamun-wj9sj]

awesome video. nice details about it and How To Use Gold Leaf

[@baribacco7914]

Great ! You've explained how to use gold leaf very well, your narration is friendly and not intimidating - Thank you

[@fatinjimmy]

Thank you! This helps! Definitely gonna get adhesive size glue for my upcoming gold project! It looks smooth and better! ❤️

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Glad it was helpful!

[@LolaBeM3]

Thanks for this video. Very helpful. 👍🏾

[@Claire-77]

Thanks so much for this, all the information I needed and good examples, thankyou 👍🙏❤️

[@jennyf7708]

Regarding the Sakura Quickie Glue pen - it can be used straight away as a normal glue but also will stay tacky once 'dry' like the gilding adhesive does. I use it to write or draw with and add the gold leaf much later

[@FEARLESSME-JoPaddy-]

Thanks for posting this! Very helpful*

[@Rageing7]

I know this is an older video but just in case anyone was wondering why a lot of long time users use size especially in the automotive scene is simply the act of burnishing very large areas with a powered burnisher causes the leaf to lift from some glues.

[@stevegarcia1796]

This is what i was looking for thank you.

[@DontLeaveMeLucile]

Right. Thanks for the brush cleaning montage. I'll go buy some adeshive glue.

[@kimlewis5429]

Love the pen

[@az10821]

Thanks for sharing, very useful. 👍

[@fishingforgolfballs]

Thank you for the great tutorial.

[@j.richardmoore5865]

Thanks, Limey. Great tutorial! Saved me some time and money.

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Never been called a limey before but happy to help :)

[@j.richardmoore5865]

@@ThisDesignedThat Sorry, my friend, meant no offense. Really did enjoy your video and was quite useful. I recently began investing into arts and crafts for both personal decor and (hopefully) supplement my income and I greatly appreciate folks like you who take the time and generously share their expertise.

[@ThisDesignedThat]

:) no offense taken. Glad you enjoyed the content

[@infoshared3944]

Very informative. You did the testing for me thank you.

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Glad it was helpful!

[@fitandstrongblueprint]

Great job. You've helped me a lot !!!

[@echogong2880]

Useful video, thank you.

[@rache8425]

Really useful - many thanks

[@TheBettyBoopnl]

Thanks for the great video. What adhesive would you suggest for applying gold leaf to metal ?

[@distinctdesignsbytina3557]

Thank you so much for this video! It was super helpful.

[@taibahkhan6988]

Thank you so much for capturing this one... Time saver, money saver....!! All appreciations for you..!!

[@fclough4345]

thank you, i needed to know this information.

[@AonCelticArt]

Good tips! Thanks!

[@bananabongo]

So informative. Thanks 👍

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Happy to help :)

[@stewardnyanchoka8344]

what a wonderful tip. thanks alot

[@TheVero0323]

Thank, this was very useful.

[@SandrasCraftSkills]

Wow awesome upload dear..Many blessings

[@Beerinmyhand]

Thank you for sharing this

[@2212booboo]

Thank you so much. Very informative and helps the right buy 🎉

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Great to hear!

[@aartadventure]

Very useful. Thank you

[@sajidmehmood-wy2cn]

Thank you so much for this video! I mean you're going to be helping all us beginners with this in years to come. I'm watching this in 2019. And wow did this video helped me breath again. One question, can we use PVA method on canvas if we want to use gold leaf in a painting? Thanks again for such informative video.

[@jungsomewhat]

yes u can, water it down and sieve it.

[@sajidmehmood-wy2cn]

@@jungsomewhat yeah thanks. I've been experimenting. White glue works great with gold n silver leaves on canvas. Works brilliantly!

[@14watecolormore]

Great video. Thank you.

[@suewelfare9154]

Really useful video Thank you

[@pattsyorsburn2471]

Thanks, more info on different glue.

[@michelledsouza7451]

This is a great video. I have a question. I tried sticking imitation gold leaf with a gel gloss medium and it stuck well, but I need to paint with acrylics on top (well some overlapping). I did a test and painted on top of the imitation and it looked fine. But I know they say you need to varnish it first. Any recommendations?

[@appleoneill5135]

Great tutorial ❤ many thanks x

[@ThisDesignedThat]

You’re welcome 😊

[@essyylump]

I like the demonstration, much better than the know it alls who just like the sound of their own voice.thank you 😉

[@ferdic.3402]

That's ingenious. I'll definitely try it when I have the time which will be next weekend probably :)

[@ThisDesignedThat]

good luck ;)

[@DrDIYhax]

Pretty good . Thanks I subscribed

[@maryannbryenton7855]

Good info. Thanks

[@thebaishalitaran]

Very informative video. Thank you

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Glad it was helpful!

[@PaulyPaulPaul]

Nice to discover your channel. I'm looking to use some gold leaf in a drawing, so your video was very helpful. I see the paper in the video was affected by the water in the glues. Have you tried using stone paper (manufactured from calcium carbonate bonded with high-density polyethylene)? It's unaffected by water.

[@ThisDesignedThat]

sounds very cool, will need to try this at some point

[@taniamcphelim6900]

Thank you for this video lm looking into using hold leaf lve never used it as yet

[@dorotasoronna77]

Brilliant, thank you

[@josebayronbayron9981]

Nice and great art...

[@mdmamun-wj9sj]

love it. good for all

[@woodmoonstudio]

very helpful video, thank you :-)

[@satisfyingwhiteboarddrawin4587]

Thank you. You answered all my questions. Great presentation 👍🏼

[@maureensmith3800]

Very helpful

[@maitxapostol9367]

I’m about to use gold leaf for the first time I’m quite nervous but thanks for the great video

[@ThisDesignedThat]

you'll be fine, its much easier than you imagine :)

[@GasNBullets]

You can use an art brush and glue stick for nice application just rub the brush on the glue stick then apply to the project with brush

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Great advice, didn't think of doing this :)

[@artesilvestre]

It's Roy Kent teaching me how to use gold leaf! ♥️

[@janerochfort2134]

Great video thanks 😊

[@flgirl250]

Does the Mona Lisa glue dry to a flexible texture? I want to use it on tulle for a costume. Thanks!

[@user-qu6yn5dm4b]

Thank You So Much🙏🏽I got exactly what I wanted🙏🏽♥️

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Glad it helped!

[@aishamuazu7435]

Great video thankyou

[@Broken2Bright]

Thank you for doing this even though it was 4y ago this was helpful for me I’m adding these to my wedding invites and the pen didn’t work well for me and I’m definitely doing glue stick

[@ThisDesignedThat]

You are so welcome!

[@frannyaxton6069]

Neat thanks Good option Tacky glue works too X

[@mazz2300]

helpful video, going to add some gold and silver leaf to my life drawing! thanks

[@ThisDesignedThat]

using it in my next project too :) Good luck

[@maudale]

Thank you for sharing! I am trying to recreate the cover of a manuscript/book with organic decorations/bas-relief, and it's difficult to know whether to use metallic acryllic paint, gold leaf, or another technique, in order to get a smooth surface? It seems gold leaf does have a texture to it, depending on the quality of the gold leaf, some cost £34 for one sheet, while others cost £8 for a large amount.

[@fabulouswondermama]

thanks so much great video!

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mariadelfino2018]

Any of the cheaper adhesives work if one wants to use for something temporary. But it's one thing to use it for that short-lived purpose, and another to use it for something that is archival. Sure they all seem to work. But the most expensive one intended for art and archival use is going to last longer, far more than when the rest gets subjected to temperature and humidity factors and the adhesive starts to get removed with time.

[@ThisDesignedThat]

Excellent points here Maria, thanks for sharing

[@Creedy2009]

Thank you for your video it showed me that I can use different glues. However does the same apply to different surfaces? I’ve got two mirrors one has a plastic surround and one is brassy metal. I want to silver leaf both to make them match. Will the tacky school glue watered down work on those surfaces?

[@lindakirk698]

Excellent. But what would you use to seal this onto a craft project? I doing a project with paper napkins, shells & gold leaf.

[@gila1959]

Thanx for sharing . How do you seal the gold leaf paintings ?

[@muffin1030]

Hi, what kind of metal leaf adhesive should I use for metal surfaces?

[@shraddhamaniar1970]

Informative video Thank you so much.but i have a question. Can i use glue stick on canvas??

[@capistranodecor4997]

Thank you for share !!! One question what do you with the gold left that you are not using after brushes the samples ??

[@ThisDesignedThat]

stick it in a seal container and use it for future works where a perfect layer isnt needed or where I have tiny areas to cover. You wouldn't want to use lots of scraps to cover a large area because it can look quite messy