Master the Art of Gilding and Gold Leaf Application
A hands-on gold leaf and gilding workshop taught by Ronald Layman at the North American School of Decorative Arts™ in Frederick, Maryland.
Master the Art of Gold Leaf
Gold leaf has been used for centuries on palaces, churches, frames, furniture, murals, architectural details, and decorative finishes.
In this hands-on class, students learn traditional and modern gilding methods including water gilding, oil gilding, loose leaf, transfer leaf, burnishing, antiquing, and decorative applications.
What You Will Learn
Traditional Gilding
- Gold leaf basics
- Loose leaf and transfer leaf
- Genuine and imitation leaf
- Surface preparation
Water Gilding
- Rabbit skin glue
- Clay bole
- Burnishing
- Antique frame techniques
Oil Gilding
- Oil size
- Tack timing
- Exterior applications
- Architectural gilding
Perfect For
Decorative painters, muralists, furniture restorers, artists, contractors, plaster artisans, sign painters, and beginners who want professional training.
Course Includes
- Hands-on instruction
- Multiple study samples
- Finished decorative project
- Course manual
- Supplier list
- Certificate of completion
Course Schedule
Day 1: Surface preparation, tools, materials
Day 2: Traditional water gilding
Day 3: Oil gilding techniques
Day 4: Aging, distressing, antiquing
Day 5: Final project and advanced demonstrations
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience?
No. This class is beginner-friendly.
Will I use real gold leaf?
Yes. Students learn genuine and imitation leaf systems.
Can gold leaf be used with Venetian plaster?
Yes. This class includes decorative applications with plaster and specialty finishes.