How to Refinish or Gild Picture Frames
Gilding is the process of overlaying an object with metal. Gilding leafs are available in gold, copper or silver. The process takes some practice to get exactly right, but once mastered is fairly easy to do. Gilding an object that already has a finish applied, such as a picture frame, involves first refinishing and then applying the gold overlay. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Sand the picture frame to remove the shine from the original finish. Wipe off any sanding dust with a damp rag. Allow the frame to dry completely.
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2
Apply adhesive to the front, back and sides of the picture frame. Allow the adhesive to dry until it is tacky.
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3
Pick up a gold leaf using a paint brush and apply to the picture frame, using the brush to feather the leaf onto the frame.
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4
Add another gold leaf using the same technique, slightly overlapping the two pieces of gold leaf and feathering the second over the first to create the look of seamless gold.
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5
Continue adding gold leaf until the frame is completely covered. Allow the gold leaf to dry overnight.
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6
Paint on a sealer coat to protect the gilded picture frame. Allow the sealant to dry completely before using the frame.
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Tips & Warnings
Because the process of gilding can be difficult to master at first, it is wise to practice on an object you have lying around your house that you no longer want. Once you feel confident, you can attempt the technique on your picture frame.
