Things You'll Need
Paintbrushes
Cotton balls
Silver leaf is silver metal that is pounded into very thin sheets. These sheets are delicate and can cover any object to make it look expensive and luxurious. If you are using expensive silver leaf, always choose to use glue that is specifically designed for use on silver and gold leafing. This glue does not dry completely for several hours and its stickiness makes silver leafing easier. If you have to use Elmer's glue, be careful to use it properly so you don't ruin your silver leaf.
Step 1
Dip a paintbrush into Elmer's glue and let most of the glue drip off.
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Step 2
Brush the glue over the area where you'd like to apply the silver leaf. Apply a very thin and even layer of glue.
Step 3
Wait several seconds until the glue is no longer wet, but it still sticky. Do not let the glue dry completely. The amount of time this takes will depend on how thick the glue layer is.
Step 4
Lay the silver leaf over the sticky glue. Be careful when handling silver leaf, as it can tear very easily.
Step 5
Press the leaf into the sticky glue with a soft brush or a cotton ball.
Step 6
Repeat the process with the rest of the area. Be careful not to apply glue over the silver leaf you've already applied as it will stain it and you will not be able to remove the excess glue without damaging the delicate silver leaf.
Tip
Don’t apply too much Elmer’s glue as it will not get sticky quickly enough. If you apply silver leaf to wet glue, it will get damp and wont shine as bright or look even.
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