Adding gold leaf to a painting creates a beautiful and unique effect. The process of oil painting on gold leaf is not as difficult as it may sound, but there are certain things you need to keep in mind to ensure success.
First, make sure the gold leaf is securely attached to the surface you will be painting on. Using a water-based adhesive is typically recommended.
Next, apply a thin layer of gesso to the surface. This will help the oil paint adhere better and will also provide a smoother surface for painting.
When selecting your oil paints, keep in mind that they will appear more opaque on the gold leaf than on a white surface. This means you may need to adjust your colors accordingly.
It’s best to apply the paint in thin layers and build up the color gradually. Make sure each layer is completely dry before adding the next.
While it may be tempting to use metallic paints, it’s actually not recommended. The gold leaf already provides a metallic effect, so using metallic paint can be overwhelming and take away from the beauty of the gold leaf.
Oil painting on gold leaf is a unique and beautiful technique that can add a special touch to any painting.