How to Darken Gold Leaf

Darkening gold leaf is ideal for picture frames.

Gold leaf can be made of composite material or genuine gold and can be applied to almost any surface to create distinction. Over time, gold leaf can darken on its own, resulting in an antique or distressed look. You can darken gold leaf manually to achieve the same look.

Things You'll Need

• Two small cotton cloths
• Artist paint brush
• 1 3/4 tbsp. shellac flakes
• Glass container
• Antiquing glaze
• 1/2 cup methylated spirit

Instructions

1. Mix the shellac and methylated spirit in a glass container. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 24 hours. Carefully swirl the mix every couple of hours to help the shellac flakes dissolve.

2. Mix the antiquing glaze thoroughly according to the product instructions.

3. Dip a small portion of the cotton cloth into the glaze and rub it on the gold leaf in a swirling motion. Use light to medium pressure; if the leafing flakes or peels a bit, it's OK because it contributes to the distressed look. Repeat until you achieve the desired darkness. Allow the glaze to dry.

4. Paint a thin layer of the shellac mix over the glazed gold leaf and allow it to dry. Work in small sections to ensure even coverage.

5. Buff the surface of the gold leaf lightly with another dry cotton cloth. Use the same circular motions that you used to apply the glaze.

Tips & Warnings

• For a different type of antique look, apply a crackle glaze before you apply the antiquing glaze.

• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing excessive harmful fumes.

References

• The Gold-Vault: How to Achieve Antique and other Distressed Finishes to Composition Gold Leaf
• The Gold-Vault: This is How You Apply a Simple Antique Glaze
• The Gold-Vault: At Last a Predictable Weathered Crackle Glaze

Resources

• Painting and Decorating on the Net: Guilding