I CANT BELIEVE I ACTUALLY FOUND A TEACHER WHO SPEAKS CLEARLY..PLAINLY..THANK YOU SO MUCH..HAVE BEEN LOOKING AND LOOKING FOR GOLD LEAF INSTRUCTIONS. .YHANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Hi Nancy, thanx so much for sharing all you knowledge. I have all your books and videos and have found them invaluable. You are a wonderful natural teacher. I have learnt so much and cant thank you enough
Good to hear from you Nancy. Love your new work and learning about glazing color over gold or metal leaf. Will check out all your new work and report back later. Carol
top and amazing video .. gold leaf. .. I don't know what not to like about this video. all staff covered with great details. many thanks Nancy. you the best.
Just bought your book! Super excited about my painting, a classic car, the look of the car is a nice metallic, kind of rusty reddish brown, the gold leaf is down and I can't wait to start the glazing!
Elena, the varnish I use to seal the gold leaf is Goldens Archival Varnish gloss spray. You must use gloss over leaf, and not satin or matte sealers. These sealers have a white powder in them to cut the gloss, and it will cloud or dull the leaf. I recommend viewing my free video on how to apply gold leaf. It answers all your questions in more detail. Find the video on TH-cam, or go to my website www.nancyreyner.com, and go to the "coaching" page from the top tool bar. The video is the first one on that page top left.Nancy
Nancy you are wonderful at demos. A note to those who are not using artist quality paints, they may need to use a bit more paint in the mixture since low quality paints do not have the high pigment load of Golden products.
I have two of your books - great. Will now order the other two. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences - the sign of a wonderful teacher.
Thanks David! I'm glad you are finding my books and videos useful for your work. Just for the record, I authored a total of 3 books - not 4.....well, at least not 4 yet.... Nancy
Hi Dark, Yes you can use oil paint (in any form - glazes, straight or diluted) over any metal leaf. Real gold will never tarnish no matter what paint you use. Imitation gold tarnishes from ammonia and air. Oil paint does not have ammonia in it, like acrylic, so the oil will not tarnish the imitation leaf. However, you will need to seal the imitation leaf at some point, so it does not tarnish from air. I would say it's best to seal it sooner then later, but after a few months for sure. Nancy
Nancy Reyner you videos are awesome! I'll be purchasing ur book in the near future, once I start using gold leaf more. I hope u have videos instead as I prefer to watch the videos! I'll be checking out ur site. Thanks again!
Nancy Reyner Hello! Dear Mrs. Nancy Reyner, how are you? Your artwork are so beautiful! Where I can buy? Could you please give me an address for buying? Thank you very much(of course and also give me some discount :) Thanks again!
Hey Nancy, I just bought your spiral bound book on Amazon! However, I am super impatient so I thought I’d ask a finish question I’m metal leafing a bass guitar, used water based size and loved to find a paint on or spray can clear hard finish that will bring out the brilliance. It’s really an art piece that is functional rather than a - day in, day out instrument if that matters. Can’t wait to read the book and get creative in my retirement!
Hi Ray, I like to use Golden's Archival Varnish Gloss which comes in a spray. The same product comes in a can for brush application called MSA Varnish Gloss. The spray can is easiest, because the MSA needs to be thinned with special mineral spirits (not all solvents work to thin it). You may want to call Golden's technical department. They are super smart and very helpful and may have another suggestion. (Sometimes they recommend automotive finishes for functional objects.)
First time I have watched a video of yours and at last! a teacher who is professional and clearly explains every step and materials to be used. Thank you! You also have a very nice voice. A question: Can you use a metallic paint glaze instead of a color glaze over gold or silver leaf? I know Golden makes various tones of metallic paint, so I'm thinking that different metallic tones may give an interesting overall look.
Hi Carole, Thanks so much for your kind words! I appreciate it! Yes you can definitely use any type of paint (acrylic, oil, etc) in any form (glaze, wash, opaque, etc) over the leaf. The important thing to remember is to properly seal the leaf once it has been applied to your surface, and before you start to paint. There is a free video I made with all the details called How to Apply Gold Leaf on TH-cam. Also, just want to let you know I created two fabulous online painting courses. For more info nancyreyner.com/classes/
Can I put gold leaf over gold leaf where it has a few peek through under painting showing through. And can I glaze using acrylic inks. Thank you for this amazing tutorial.
Yes you can apply leaf over leaf. I would seal the first layer of leaf prior to applying any other leaf on top. Use a solvent-based or oil based adhesive for your second layer of leaf if you are going over a solvent or oil based seal. You can use the water-based adhesive over a water-based sealer. You can use acrylic inks to glaze, but glazing usually means a transparent evenly applied layer, which means you would be using a very small amount of the inks with a larger amount of some time of slow drying medium or a glazing medium. Thanks for your comment and glad you like my video!
Hi Nancy, when you say you painted the image first (the one with the birds) and then you applied the gold leaf. How did you get the gold leaf application to go around the birds heads the way that you did, so perfectly? Thanks!
Thank you! Could I ask which transparent sealer would you use on this kind of projects? Maybe not a glossy but a satin spray instead not to alter the beautiful play opaque-shiny given by acrylic colour and metal leaf?
Yes I sealed the leaf before applying any acrylic paint or acrylic medium. If I didn't seal the leaf is delicate and could scratch and come off while I brush over it. Also acrylic has ammonia in it while wet (the ammonia leaves once it is dry) and this can tarnish imitation gold leaf which has copper in it. Copper will tarnish when exposed to ammonia.
Hi Nancy, I think I have a little problem. I put on my adhesive, let it dry to the right dryness, then added the gold leaf. this was my second layer of 24 k gold leaf. My problem is that I could see my brush strokes from the adhesive. Do I need to thin out the adhesive and maybe use a different brush to apply the adhesive? And when can I put the next layer of gold on. How long do I need to wait before doing so? Thank you Maureen
Hello Nancy, I would like to know when do you use the Archival varnish gloss, over the gold leaf application or after the glazing? Thank you for sharing this video!
Hi Senka, You want to varnish twice. Once over the leaf after it has been applied and waiting at least 3 days so the leaf adhesive is fully dry. Then again when your painting is complete. I use a different varnish for each of these two times. So over the leaf I use a solvent based varnish (Golden's MSA Varnish or Archival Varnish Gloss for spray) and then over the finished painting I use Golden's Polymer Varnish Gloss. More info in this video called How to Apply Gold Leaf at nancyreyner.com/paint-with-nancy/
Great tutorial Nancy. I have problems with the Acrylic layers not properly adhering to and later peeling off of the Gold Leaf. What am I doing incorrectly?
I have real gold leaf and I'm not sure if I should put GAC200 GOLDEN on it to protect it or not. I have my acrylic paint and I put gold leaf on it can I use GAC200 on the whole paint or just on the real gold leaf. Thanks for sharing your experience with gold leaf. 🥰
GAC200 is tricky because it dries fast and it's easy to create some issues by overbrushing. Since you are using real gold leaf, it will not tarnish using water-based acrylic. This means you can use just about anything to seal and protect the leaf. You can use any clear acrylic spray, or any clear gloss acrylic medium. If you do want to use the GAC200, you can add some GAC500 into it (around a 1:1 ratio) which will ease the application. The easiest thing to do would be to apply one coat of a gloss acrylic medium, then apply your acrylic painting, then varnish it with any painting varnish - waterbased or solvent based. I suggested the GAC200 as a way to seal over imitation gold leaf, which has copper in it that can tarnish when other sealers are used. With real gold leaf you really don't have to worry, so use a product that's easier to use.
Hi Nancy. Thanks for your vids, like your work. I really need some help. For a long time now I've been looking for a good isolation barrier. One that will both protect and maximize the effect of imitation gold leaf, and provide a good tooth for acrylics. I've used a variety of gloss mediums with no water in a thin layer. All of my attempts seem to at best dull the sheen and often result in some tarnish. Is there a brand or particular medium you could suggest? Really appreciate it!
Hi Nancy Reyner, I would like to know the brand of water base adhesive you are using. I'm finding it hard to locate a product. I'm using highly toxic and I dont like it. I used a solvent based bole so can I put a water base adhesive over it once the bole is dry?
maureen wolfson Hi Maureen, I have used several different brands and found them all to be effective. I have used Duk, and also Mona Lisa brand by Speedball, and Rolco has one I like too. I do not know if you can use any of these water-based adhesives over a solvent based bole. You would have to contact the manufacturer of either the bole you used, and/or the water-based adhesive you choose. You might have to lightly sand the bole. That's my guess, but please find out the correct info about that.
Hi Nancy. I’m so glad that I found your videos. I’m really starting to get into leafing. I have a question, if I may. I put three coats of GAC 200 over my leafing to seal it. How long do you recommend letting it dry before you begin the glazing process?
Hi Nancy, Thanks for your great videos! I have a question: I am composite gold leafing furniture that is shaped like tree trunks--very textured. The surface that exists is silver leafed--but it looks like it was either machine done or sprayed on--no evidence of hand work. How could I prepare that surface for gold leafing to insure adhesion?
If the texture is very thick, then there may not be a benefit to leafing with composite gold leaf. Try a small area to see if you like it before spending a lot of time and money. You can get gold paint in a spray can and apply it directly over the silver leaf that's there. Spraying paint over texture enables the gold to get all over, in the crevices of the texture, and elsewhere. For your initial experiment, if you want to try leafing, you can apply the adhesive, then the leaf as per my instructions. After at least 3 days (wait a week if it is cold or humid) see if the leaf sticks. It is highly likely that the silver is applied by spraying.
I also have another question. What if I want to use the gold leaf on paper. I am working on graphite and want to gold leaf some areas. Then how can I seal it on the paper! Thanks for answering🙌❤️
I would use the spray varnish I mentioned in your previous question. By the way, I have another free video on TH-cam that covers all the details on using gold leaf. Have you seen it? Here is the link: th-cam.com/video/Scd3KBPsOKs/w-d-xo.html
Hi Nancy, Love your voice and videos. You are simply awesome and really a great teacher. I have a question. Could you please let me know if I am right! You seal the gold leaf then start applying any knowledge be of paint !!! Right !
Thank you for your comment. It looks like your question has some serious typos in there, so I can't tell what you are asking. However, I think you mean can you apply paint once you seal. Yes you can. Seal with a solvent based varnish (I use Goldens Archival Varnish Spray gloss, or to brush apply their MSA Gloss Varnish.) You should then wait at least one week (I wait 2 weeks) before applying acrylic paint.
First of all, thank you so much for sharing these tutorials. They are incredibly helpful and I'm sure I can speak for everyone when I say that we are very grateful! I have a question...I used copper leaf on a painting I did a while back. It looked fine till I sealed it with the GAC-200 and it's really badly tarnished (to be fair, due to unforeseen circumstances there has been some time between the application of the leaf and the GAC). I've given it four coats of the GAC and I plan to paint over the tarnished section using acrylic paint, then leaf over it again, wait three days and then apply the GAC. Do you think I'll have any issues with the tarnish showing through? I can't find anything online about whether my fix will work so I thought i would ask. Thanks. Carol.
HI Carol, I do recommend spraying the unsealed leaf first with a solvent based sealer, like Golden's Archival Varnish Gloss - or use any sealer spray recommended by a metal leaf company. The problem with using the GAC200 directly over the unsealed leaf, is that if you have any water on your brush, it may tarnish. Leaving the leaf unsealed for lengths of time (ie. over 30 days) can start the tarnish process, then adding the GAC200 might have pushed it further. You have added 4 coats of the 200 now, so whatever tarnish has happened will stop there. With the new process you explained, I would skip painting over the tarnished section, as you will also be re-leafing it, so that should cover the tarnished leaf very well. I am assuming the tarnished leaf is now sealed too? If not, the tarnishing may continue and affect whatever goes over it. Next time apply the GAC200 after only one week of leaf application using no water in the 200.
I can't tell you how much I appreciate your help with this! Yes, the tarnished leaf is now sealed too and I've just ordered some Golden's Archival Varnish Gloss to go over the top of the leaf prior to using the GAC200. I think both you are your paintings are awesome. Thank you so much for taking the time to come back to me. :-)
Yes. Same application. If the oils are water-based you can use either a water-based or oil-based adhesive for the leaf if applying over your oils. If the oils have wax or oil in them, you will need to use an oil-based adhesive only to apply leaf over the oil paint.
Hi Nancy. Thanks so much for all your wonderful informative videos and books. I wondered if you could clarify something for me. I am glazing color over imitation leaf with glazing liquid and transparent Golden paint; mostly glazing liquid with a tad bit of paint. I know the glazing liquid slows the drying time but once all of this is dry I do not notice any tarnish of the leaf. As I understand, the ammonia is what causes the initial tarnishing but it evaporates and becomes inert when dry. So my questions is: IF I am happy with the look of the glazes over the leaf (that I have not protected with varnish and GAC before painting) once they are dry, can I assume that they will not tarnish further as long as I then apply the final protective finishes? Thanks so much! Jo
Hi Jo, If you do not notice any tarnishing happening during and directly after you are glazing over the unsealed imitation leaf, then once the glazing is dry, you are correct. The ammonia has dissipated in the acrylic glaze and therefore the imitation leaf will not tarnish due to acrylic applications. However, as you noted, the leaf will tarnish due to exposure to air, but much more slowly, so over a period of a few months. So again you are correct that once you apply a final protective finish your leaf will not tarnish. Sounds like you've got this down!
HI Nancy! Thanks so much for your quick reply and your clear confirmation. I have met you several times at various demos and workshops in the Phoenix valley. Last time we talked I was in the process of completing my book for North Light and you were very helpful with what you shared of your experience. I am delighted that you continue to do well and produce your wonderful books and videos. Thanks again for everything, jo
i would like to know more about the "slow drying medium" you said use a "retarder" in a "polymer medium gloss?" what do these words mean? do you have a video on what your talking about?
To make acrylic dry slower you can use a slow drying medium. Golden makes a medium called OPEN, which is very slow drying and is made to work with their line of slow drying acrylic paints called OPEN. But you can combine the OPEN paints and mediums with the regular acrylic paints to slow down the drying. In this video the OPEN medium wasn't available at the time, so here I am using another slow drying medium which I still use and like a lot. It is also by Golden and called Acrylic Glazing Medium. Instead of using a slow drying medium, you can also make your own, by adding retarder (an additive available for sale) into your paints. Just make sure you don't add more than 15% retarder to your acrylic paints or mediums or it may never dry. That is why I usually use the Glazing Medium because I don't have to keep track of how much I'm using in a mixture.
@@nancyreyner the problem with acrylic is that its not "OIL" and drys FLAT and lacks the luster of a WET oil painting! their are serious problems with oil paint like the SMELL! unfortunately due to the EPA REAL oIL is now banned and has been for several decades like 1980 is when it all ended you can get oil but its not the same if you add more then 15% you said it will never dry DOES IT LOOK WET! because you may have solved an OLD problem with paints!
@@charlesklein7232 Hi Charles, Yes it is true that acrylic and oil are very different. However they are similar in that both binders (oil and polymer) are naturally glossy. It is the pigments that determine whether a paint will dry glossy or matte. Heavier pigments like Burnt Sienna will dry flat or matte in both oil and acrylic. While modern and therefore lighter in density pigments such as Quinacridones and Phthalos will dry glossy in both oil and acrylic. Wet oil paintings look glossy but when dry, unless mediums are added, will have a mixed sheen depending on the pigments used as I just described. And this is exactly the same with acrylic. If you want acrylic paintings to look glossier then just apply a gloss varnish over the painting when the painting is complete. Hope I answered your question. If not, feel free to reply back.
maureen wolfson There is a very specific reason why I do not list specific products and places to contact in my books. My books are sold worldwide, and many readers are in countries where certain brands and products are not available. Sources that I like when I write the book may not be accurate sources some time later. I attempt as much as possible to refer to products in generic terms - for example, I use the term gloss medium instead of specifying Golden's Polymer Medium Gloss. This way readers can find their favorite brand and product in that generic category, and can go online to research where they want to get it and how much they want to spend. Hope this helps you understand my methods.
Dear Nancy, I'm using imitation Gold leaf for my paintings and I have noticed brown patches all over the area where I apply Gold leaf. I don't know what to do. I've applied another layer and I do protect them with a layer of transparent nail polish. Those brown patches appeared after 1 month...I'm preparing my painting for exhibition and I'm worried that this problem will appear again. I'm considering to use real gold to avoid this problem..kindly advice, best regards Violet
Brown spots are tarnishing due to exposure to air. This means the nail polish is not sealing the leaf properly. I recommend using Golden's Archival Varnish Gloss spray as a sealer for your imitation leaf. Apply at least two coats reading the can for instructions on drying times in between spray coats. If you are concerned about the longevity of your paintings for clients who purchase them and for your exhibition then I do recommend avoiding the use of commercial products (which are not tested for fine-art archival purposed) and instead use the proper product meant for the job.
Hi Nancy I'm using imitation gold and silver leaf on acrylic paint on canvas. Could you recommend a varnish to seal, and more importantly, guarantee the gold leaf doesn't tarnish. Thanks so much for your help! Best Ele
Hello, I just want to glase my paint where I applied gold leaf. Do I glaze it and later on I seal it or I should varnish it before I use the colored glazed method as u did?
Hi Jeffrey (starving artist), I'm glad you like my work and videos. I post all my videos on my website www.nancyreyner.com/video-clips/, although I think these are also all on TH-cam, but check it out on my website to make sure. I teach private and small group sessions out of my studio here in Santa Fe, if you care to make the trek and schedule a session. Thanks again! Nancy
Good question! Imitation gold leaf is made of copper and zinc, which will tarnish 2 ways: when exposed to ammonia (found in acrylic products0 and when exposed to air (if not sealed). So the best thing is to seal it with a fast drying acrylic (so the ammonia evaporates before tarnishing the leaf) and a gloss (to enhance the metal reflection - while matte products diminish the metal reflection). So you're correct in applying undiluted gloss mediums. If you apply it carefully (using a soft smooth brush without brushing excessively especially while it starts to dry and is tacky) this is your best method. A carefully applied layer of gloss acrylic will still diminish the super reflective leaf sheen, it will not do it too much and the leaf will still keep it's beauty and shine. If your brush application is not so good, try spraying a gloss coat on the leaf. I like Golden's Archival Varnish (gloss). This is what I use to go over the applied leaf, before I then start painting on it to add imagery. Since you mentioned that you are getting some tarnish after applying your medium, my guess is your medium is being applied too heavily and also perhaps some water is getting into your medium via your brush, making it slow drying enough to tarnish. I recommend you switch to the spray I mentioned. I hope this helps. Nancy
Hi Tim, My new book, Acrylic Illuminations, goes into great detail on this. In general, acrylic will stick to metal leaf, but only if the first layer of acrylic on the leaf is thinly applied with absolutely no water. To enhance adhesion I advise to first apply onto the leaf a thin layer of a gloss acrylic spray that uses mineral spirit solvent, such as Golden's Archival Varnish Spray Gloss. Companies that sell leaf also usually make an appropriate spray sealer. Over that spray layer, when dry, I like to apply a coat of a hard acrylic medium, such as Golden's GAC200. This product is a very thin (not diluted, though) formulated medium that is extra hard and adds adhesion. This product is also good for adding to paints to use on metal, like a sculpture that will remain outdoors, so it makes the paints extra durable. As a final coat over your painting on leaf, apply a few coats of a water soluble varnish, such as Golden's Polymer Varnish Gloss. I like to use a different varnish at the end then the varnish used first over the leaf. That way the final varnish won't redissolve the initially applied varnish. Hope this helps! Nancy
Also, my book Acrylic Illuminations has a whole section on Gold and metal leaf applications, techniques and tips. This might help other questions that come up.
Hi Chava, Your question is a good one as there is much confusion over what is real, imitation or composition leaf. That is because companies that sell leaf aren't very clear on their labeling. Composition Leaf and Imitation Leaf are the same thing. They come in squares about 5" x 5", and cost about 25 cents per square. The imitation or composition gold leaf is made of copper and zinc (imitating gold, and made of a composite metal - so that's why it's called imitation or composition leaf). Real gold leaf is usually stored in the back of a store in a vault, so you would need to ask for help to buy it as it is not found on shelves. The real gold leaf is sold in squares about 2" x 2" so much smaller and each leaf costs about $10. What a difference! My book Acrylic Illuminations explains much more about leaf and paint combinations if interested. Nancy
Hi Ele, Please take a look at my video on TH-cam How to Apply Gold Metal Leaf. It has all the information you are asking about. I recommend using Golden's Archival Varnish gloss which comes in a spray can. This is great for small works. For larger sizes I brush apply Golden's MSA Varnish gloss. These are the same products, just one is in a spray and the MSA is for brush application. Real gold leaf will not tarnish, but still can be protected from handling with the same products I just mentioned. Imitation gold leaf will tarnish from air if not protected. So you are smart to consider sealing. Hope this helps! Nancy
Nancy Reyner is the best teacher ever !!! Her books, course, videos and all she offers is FANTASTIC !!! I really recommend her course !!!!
Thank you Debby! You are very kind.
I CANT BELIEVE I ACTUALLY FOUND A TEACHER WHO SPEAKS CLEARLY..PLAINLY..THANK YOU SO MUCH..HAVE BEEN LOOKING AND LOOKING FOR GOLD LEAF INSTRUCTIONS. .YHANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Thank you so much! Glad you were able to follow it easily.
Thank you so much . This video has been so helpful .Now I can’t wait to use gold leaf .
I really appreciate these videos. Your approach is one I really connect with. Thank you so much.
Thank You Nancy! I love gold leafing and to learn to incorporate it into my paintings feel like a big step up! I also appreciate the way you teach!
Thank you Charlene! I'm glad you are finding this video inspiring for your work! Thanks for the comment.
You are the best!
Hi Nancy, thanx so much for sharing all you knowledge. I have all your books and videos and have found them invaluable.
You are a wonderful natural teacher. I have learnt so much and cant thank you enough
Good to hear from you Nancy. Love your new work and learning about glazing color over gold or metal leaf.
Will check out all your new work and report back later. Carol
You are a brilliant tutor! I have just bought your book and am very excited and cannot wait to have a go myself. Thank you so much.
Thank you for the comment. I hope you like the book!
top and amazing video .. gold leaf. .. I don't know what not to like about this video. all staff covered with great details. many thanks Nancy. you the best.
Just bought your book! Super excited about my painting, a classic car, the look of the car is a nice metallic, kind of rusty reddish brown, the gold leaf is down and I can't wait to start the glazing!
Always inspiring and helpful - thank you!
You are so welcome!
happy to find your videos- have been experimenting with metallics for quite a while
In love with this gold leaf techniques!! Thanks a lot
Wonderful Nancy. Thank you for being do generous and helpful with your knowledge. Jenny Phillips, Australia
Jenny Phillips she covered leafing over leaf...in her u tube video...just size it...leaf it and SEAL IT GOOD.
Thanks Nancy! just bought the book! can't wait to get it and try some of this out! your videos are super through and helpful! thanks Again!!
I make something with golden leaves its my first time to use but after you tutorial I learn it from you
That is so beautiful. Can't wait to try this out.
Elena, the varnish I use to seal the gold leaf is Goldens Archival Varnish gloss spray. You must use gloss over leaf, and not satin or matte sealers. These sealers have a white powder in them to cut the gloss, and it will cloud or dull the leaf. I recommend viewing my free video on how to apply gold leaf. It answers all your questions in more detail. Find the video on TH-cam, or go to my website www.nancyreyner.com, and go to the "coaching" page from the top tool bar. The video is the first one on that page top left.Nancy
Nancy you are wonderful at demos. A note to those who are not using artist quality paints, they may need to use a bit more paint in the mixture since low quality paints do not have the high pigment load of Golden products.
I have two of your books - great. Will now order the other two. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences - the sign of a wonderful teacher.
Thanks David! I'm glad you are finding my books and videos useful for your work. Just for the record, I authored a total of 3 books - not 4.....well, at least not 4 yet....
Nancy
Me gusta mucho su canal, es muy fácil comprender sus explicaciones, y voy a comenzar a trabajar con las hojas de oro. Gracias maestra.
Hi Dark,
Yes you can use oil paint (in any form - glazes, straight or diluted) over any metal leaf. Real gold will never tarnish no matter what paint you use. Imitation gold tarnishes from ammonia and air. Oil paint does not have ammonia in it, like acrylic, so the oil will not tarnish the imitation leaf. However, you will need to seal the imitation leaf at some point, so it does not tarnish from air. I would say it's best to seal it sooner then later, but after a few months for sure.
Nancy
Nancy Reyner you videos are awesome! I'll be purchasing ur book in the near future, once I start using gold leaf more. I hope u have videos instead as I prefer to watch the videos! I'll be checking out ur site. Thanks again!
Nancy Reyner
Hello! Dear Mrs. Nancy Reyner, how are you? Your artwork are so beautiful! Where I can buy? Could you please give me an address for buying? Thank you very much(of course and also give me some discount :) Thanks again!
Great info on that technique for fading the glaze color. Thank you!!! Also love your crane painting :)
wow ...spectacular
I love the book, glad I got the spiral bound.
Hi Nancy, didn't know you have a you tube channel. Will have to go back and catch up so to speak. Love your books. thanks as always for sharing.
Hey Nancy, I just bought your spiral bound book on Amazon! However, I am super impatient so I thought I’d ask a finish question I’m metal leafing a bass guitar, used water based size and loved to find a paint on or spray can clear hard finish that will bring out the brilliance. It’s really an art piece that is functional rather than a - day in, day out instrument if that matters. Can’t wait to read the book and get creative in my retirement!
Hi Ray, I like to use Golden's Archival Varnish Gloss which comes in a spray. The same product comes in a can for brush application called MSA Varnish Gloss. The spray can is easiest, because the MSA needs to be thinned with special mineral spirits (not all solvents work to thin it). You may want to call Golden's technical department. They are super smart and very helpful and may have another suggestion. (Sometimes they recommend automotive finishes for functional objects.)
First time I have watched a video of yours and at last! a teacher who is professional and clearly explains every step and materials to be used. Thank you! You also have a very nice voice. A question: Can you use a metallic paint glaze instead of a color glaze over gold or silver leaf? I know Golden makes various tones of metallic paint, so I'm thinking that different metallic tones may give an interesting overall look.
Hi Carole, Thanks so much for your kind words! I appreciate it! Yes you can definitely use any type of paint (acrylic, oil, etc) in any form (glaze, wash, opaque, etc) over the leaf. The important thing to remember is to properly seal the leaf once it has been applied to your surface, and before you start to paint. There is a free video I made with all the details called How to Apply Gold Leaf on TH-cam. Also, just want to let you know I created two fabulous online painting courses. For more info nancyreyner.com/classes/
Can I put gold leaf over gold leaf where it has a few peek through under painting showing through. And can I glaze using acrylic inks. Thank you for this amazing tutorial.
Yes you can apply leaf over leaf. I would seal the first layer of leaf prior to applying any other leaf on top. Use a solvent-based or oil based adhesive for your second layer of leaf if you are going over a solvent or oil based seal. You can use the water-based adhesive over a water-based sealer. You can use acrylic inks to glaze, but glazing usually means a transparent evenly applied layer, which means you would be using a very small amount of the inks with a larger amount of some time of slow drying medium or a glazing medium. Thanks for your comment and glad you like my video!
Hi Nancy, when you say you painted the image first (the one with the birds) and then you applied the gold leaf. How did you get the gold leaf application to go around the birds heads the way that you did, so perfectly? Thanks!
Thank you! Could I ask which transparent sealer would you use on this kind of projects?
Maybe not a glossy but a satin spray instead not to alter the beautiful play opaque-shiny given by acrylic colour and metal leaf?
Wow, this is a great video! Thank you.
Your videos are fantastic! I'm trying to learn some techniques to gold leaf my barrel-vaulted ceiling.
is the gilded area already top coated? otherwise when you apply the glaze it may tear the leaf away from the surface.
Yes you need to seal (top coat) the leaf prior to applying any paint - acrylic or oil, in a glaze or not.
Did you seal the leaf before you did the red and green glaze?????? Can you seal the leaf and then apply the glaze colors???
Yes I sealed the leaf before applying any acrylic paint or acrylic medium. If I didn't seal the leaf is delicate and could scratch and come off while I brush over it. Also acrylic has ammonia in it while wet (the ammonia leaves once it is dry) and this can tarnish imitation gold leaf which has copper in it. Copper will tarnish when exposed to ammonia.
Hi Nancy, I think I have a little problem. I put on my adhesive, let it dry to the right dryness, then added the gold leaf. this was my second layer of 24 k gold leaf. My problem is that I could see my brush strokes from the adhesive. Do I need to thin out the adhesive and maybe use a different brush to apply the adhesive? And when can I put the next layer of gold on. How long do I need to wait before doing so? Thank you Maureen
I read your book on Kindle then bought the book. I love it!
Hello Nancy,
I would like to know when do you use the Archival varnish gloss, over the gold leaf application or after the glazing? Thank you for sharing this video!
Hi Senka, You want to varnish twice. Once over the leaf after it has been applied and waiting at least 3 days so the leaf adhesive is fully dry. Then again when your painting is complete. I use a different varnish for each of these two times. So over the leaf I use a solvent based varnish (Golden's MSA Varnish or Archival Varnish Gloss for spray) and then over the finished painting I use Golden's Polymer Varnish Gloss. More info in this video called How to Apply Gold Leaf at nancyreyner.com/paint-with-nancy/
@@nancyreyner Thank you so much! I love your videos!
Great tutorial Nancy. I have problems with the Acrylic layers not properly adhering to and later peeling off of the Gold Leaf. What am I doing incorrectly?
Tim Gagnon u didnt seal it enough or with correct stuff
I have real gold leaf and I'm not sure if I should put GAC200 GOLDEN on it to protect it or not. I have my acrylic paint and I put gold leaf on it can I use GAC200 on the whole paint or just on the real gold leaf. Thanks for sharing your experience with gold leaf. 🥰
GAC200 is tricky because it dries fast and it's easy to create some issues by overbrushing. Since you are using real gold leaf, it will not tarnish using water-based acrylic. This means you can use just about anything to seal and protect the leaf. You can use any clear acrylic spray, or any clear gloss acrylic medium. If you do want to use the GAC200, you can add some GAC500 into it (around a 1:1 ratio) which will ease the application. The easiest thing to do would be to apply one coat of a gloss acrylic medium, then apply your acrylic painting, then varnish it with any painting varnish - waterbased or solvent based. I suggested the GAC200 as a way to seal over imitation gold leaf, which has copper in it that can tarnish when other sealers are used. With real gold leaf you really don't have to worry, so use a product that's easier to use.
@@nancyreyner Impressive! Thanks for answering me.🥰😇
Hi Nancy. Thanks for your vids, like your work. I really need some help. For a long time now I've been looking for a good isolation barrier. One that will both protect and maximize the effect of imitation gold leaf, and provide a good tooth for acrylics. I've used a variety of gloss mediums with no water in a thin layer. All of my attempts seem to at best dull the sheen and often result in some tarnish. Is there a brand or particular medium you could suggest? Really appreciate it!
Hi Nancy Reyner, I would like to know the brand of water base adhesive you are using. I'm finding it hard to locate a product. I'm using highly toxic and I dont like it. I used a solvent based bole so can I put a water base adhesive over it once the bole is dry?
maureen wolfson Hi Maureen, I have used several different brands and found them all to be effective. I have used Duk, and also Mona Lisa brand by Speedball, and Rolco has one I like too. I do not know if you can use any of these water-based adhesives over a solvent based bole. You would have to contact the manufacturer of either the bole you used, and/or the water-based adhesive you choose. You might have to lightly sand the bole. That's my guess, but please find out the correct info about that.
Hi Nancy. I’m so glad that I found your videos. I’m really starting to get into leafing. I have a question, if I may. I put three coats of GAC 200 over my leafing to seal it. How long do you recommend letting it dry before you begin the glazing process?
Hi Nancy,
Thanks for your great videos! I have a question: I am composite gold leafing furniture that is shaped like tree trunks--very textured. The surface that exists is silver leafed--but it looks like it was either machine done or sprayed on--no evidence of hand work. How could I prepare that surface for gold leafing to insure adhesion?
If the texture is very thick, then there may not be a benefit to leafing with composite gold leaf. Try a small area to see if you like it before spending a lot of time and money. You can get gold paint in a spray can and apply it directly over the silver leaf that's there. Spraying paint over texture enables the gold to get all over, in the crevices of the texture, and elsewhere. For your initial experiment, if you want to try leafing, you can apply the adhesive, then the leaf as per my instructions. After at least 3 days (wait a week if it is cold or humid) see if the leaf sticks. It is highly likely that the silver is applied by spraying.
I also have another question. What if I want to use the gold leaf on paper. I am working on graphite and want to gold leaf some areas. Then how can I seal it on the paper!
Thanks for answering🙌❤️
I would use the spray varnish I mentioned in your previous question. By the way, I have another free video on TH-cam that covers all the details on using gold leaf. Have you seen it? Here is the link: th-cam.com/video/Scd3KBPsOKs/w-d-xo.html
Nancy Reyner You are awesome. I will go watch it. Thanks a million❤️
Hi Nancy,
Love your voice and videos. You are simply awesome and really a great teacher. I have a question. Could you please let me know if I am right! You seal the gold leaf then start applying any knowledge be of paint !!! Right !
Thank you for your comment. It looks like your question has some serious typos in there, so I can't tell what you are asking. However, I think you mean can you apply paint once you seal. Yes you can. Seal with a solvent based varnish (I use Goldens Archival Varnish Spray gloss, or to brush apply their MSA Gloss Varnish.) You should then wait at least one week (I wait 2 weeks) before applying acrylic paint.
Nancy Reyner you are right. Sorry for the typos. Your quick response is appreciated❤️
Do you add the sealant so the faux gold does not tarnish? And do you do it before or after the glazing ?
This free video on TH-cam I made tells all th-cam.com/video/Scd3KBPsOKs/w-d-xo.html
All my art is 130 cm x 170cm. Big! And the acrylic has lasted since my first try using rip stop, camping canvas in 2013
First of all, thank you so much for sharing these tutorials. They are incredibly helpful and I'm sure I can speak for everyone when I say that we are very grateful! I have a question...I used copper leaf on a painting I did a while back. It looked fine till I sealed it with the GAC-200 and it's really badly tarnished (to be fair, due to unforeseen circumstances there has been some time between the application of the leaf and the GAC). I've given it four coats of the GAC and I plan to paint over the tarnished section using acrylic paint, then leaf over it again, wait three days and then apply the GAC. Do you think I'll have any issues with the tarnish showing through? I can't find anything online about whether my fix will work so I thought i would ask. Thanks. Carol.
HI Carol, I do recommend spraying the unsealed leaf first with a solvent based sealer, like Golden's Archival Varnish Gloss - or use any sealer spray recommended by a metal leaf company. The problem with using the GAC200 directly over the unsealed leaf, is that if you have any water on your brush, it may tarnish. Leaving the leaf unsealed for lengths of time (ie. over 30 days) can start the tarnish process, then adding the GAC200 might have pushed it further. You have added 4 coats of the 200 now, so whatever tarnish has happened will stop there. With the new process you explained, I would skip painting over the tarnished section, as you will also be re-leafing it, so that should cover the tarnished leaf very well. I am assuming the tarnished leaf is now sealed too? If not, the tarnishing may continue and affect whatever goes over it. Next time apply the GAC200 after only one week of leaf application using no water in the 200.
I can't tell you how much I appreciate your help with this! Yes, the tarnished leaf is now sealed too and I've just ordered some Golden's Archival Varnish Gloss to go over the top of the leaf prior to using the GAC200. I think both you are your paintings are awesome. Thank you so much for taking the time to come back to me. :-)
Name of the book... plse
You are my art yoga 🙏👏🎨
I don’t like acrylics. I use CALIGO Safe Wash oils. Can I follow you with the oils?
Yes. Same application. If the oils are water-based you can use either a water-based or oil-based adhesive for the leaf if applying over your oils. If the oils have wax or oil in them, you will need to use an oil-based adhesive only to apply leaf over the oil paint.
Hi Nancy. Thanks so much for all your wonderful informative videos and books. I wondered if you could clarify something for me. I am glazing color over imitation leaf with glazing liquid and transparent Golden paint; mostly glazing liquid with a tad bit of paint. I know the glazing liquid slows the drying time but once all of this is dry I do not notice any tarnish of the leaf. As I understand, the ammonia is what causes the initial tarnishing but it evaporates and becomes inert when dry. So my questions is: IF I am happy with the look of the glazes over the leaf (that I have not protected with varnish and GAC before painting) once they are dry, can I assume that they will not tarnish further as long as I then apply the final protective finishes? Thanks so much! Jo
Hi Jo, If you do not notice any tarnishing happening during and directly after you are glazing over the unsealed imitation leaf, then once the glazing is dry, you are correct. The ammonia has dissipated in the acrylic glaze and therefore the imitation leaf will not tarnish due to acrylic applications. However, as you noted, the leaf will tarnish due to exposure to air, but much more slowly, so over a period of a few months. So again you are correct that once you apply a final protective finish your leaf will not tarnish. Sounds like you've got this down!
HI Nancy! Thanks so much for your quick reply and your clear confirmation. I have met you several times at various demos and workshops in the Phoenix valley. Last time we talked I was in the process of completing my book for North Light and you were very helpful with what you shared of your experience. I am delighted that you continue to do well and produce your wonderful books and videos. Thanks again for everything, jo
Hi Nancy, I love your video and can't wait to get your book. I do have a question - is "composition" gold leaf the same as "imitation" gold leaf?
i would like to know more about the "slow drying medium" you said use a "retarder" in a "polymer medium gloss?" what do these words mean? do you have a video on what your talking about?
To make acrylic dry slower you can use a slow drying medium. Golden makes a medium called OPEN, which is very slow drying and is made to work with their line of slow drying acrylic paints called OPEN. But you can combine the OPEN paints and mediums with the regular acrylic paints to slow down the drying. In this video the OPEN medium wasn't available at the time, so here I am using another slow drying medium which I still use and like a lot. It is also by Golden and called Acrylic Glazing Medium. Instead of using a slow drying medium, you can also make your own, by adding retarder (an additive available for sale) into your paints. Just make sure you don't add more than 15% retarder to your acrylic paints or mediums or it may never dry. That is why I usually use the Glazing Medium because I don't have to keep track of how much I'm using in a mixture.
@@nancyreyner the problem with acrylic is that its not "OIL" and drys FLAT and lacks the luster of a WET oil painting! their are serious problems with oil paint like the SMELL! unfortunately due to the EPA REAL oIL is now banned and has been for several decades like 1980 is when it all ended you can get oil but its not the same if you add more then 15% you said it will never dry DOES IT LOOK WET! because you may have solved an OLD problem with paints!
@@charlesklein7232 Hi Charles, Yes it is true that acrylic and oil are very different. However they are similar in that both binders (oil and polymer) are naturally glossy. It is the pigments that determine whether a paint will dry glossy or matte. Heavier pigments like Burnt Sienna will dry flat or matte in both oil and acrylic. While modern and therefore lighter in density pigments such as Quinacridones and Phthalos will dry glossy in both oil and acrylic. Wet oil paintings look glossy but when dry, unless mediums are added, will have a mixed sheen depending on the pigments used as I just described. And this is exactly the same with acrylic. If you want acrylic paintings to look glossier then just apply a gloss varnish over the painting when the painting is complete. Hope I answered your question. If not, feel free to reply back.
by the way I have your book and it is very helpful it would have been nice if where to find the products or a choice of places to contact
maureen wolfson There is a very specific reason why I do not list specific products and places to contact in my books. My books are sold worldwide, and many readers are in countries where certain brands and products are not available. Sources that I like when I write the book may not be accurate sources some time later. I attempt as much as possible to refer to products in generic terms - for example, I use the term gloss medium instead of specifying Golden's Polymer Medium Gloss. This way readers can find their favorite brand and product in that generic category, and can go online to research where they want to get it and how much they want to spend. Hope this helps you understand my methods.
outstanding
Dear Nancy, I'm using imitation Gold leaf for my paintings and I have noticed brown patches all over the area where I apply Gold leaf. I don't know what to do. I've applied another layer and I do protect them with a layer of transparent nail polish. Those brown patches appeared after 1 month...I'm preparing my painting for exhibition and I'm worried that this problem will appear again. I'm considering to use real gold to avoid this problem..kindly advice, best regards Violet
Brown spots are tarnishing due to exposure to air. This means the nail polish is not sealing the leaf properly. I recommend using Golden's Archival Varnish Gloss spray as a sealer for your imitation leaf. Apply at least two coats reading the can for instructions on drying times in between spray coats. If you are concerned about the longevity of your paintings for clients who purchase them and for your exhibition then I do recommend avoiding the use of commercial products (which are not tested for fine-art archival purposed) and instead use the proper product meant for the job.
Hi Nancy
I'm using imitation gold and silver leaf on acrylic paint on canvas. Could you recommend a varnish to seal, and more importantly, guarantee the gold leaf doesn't tarnish.
Thanks so much for your help!
Best Ele
Hello, I just want to glase my paint where I applied gold leaf. Do I glaze it and later on I seal it or I should varnish it before I use the colored glazed method as u did?
Hi Jeffrey (starving artist),
I'm glad you like my work and videos. I post all my videos on my website www.nancyreyner.com/video-clips/, although I think these are also all on TH-cam, but check it out on my website to make sure. I teach private and small group sessions out of my studio here in Santa Fe, if you care to make the trek and schedule a session.
Thanks again!
Nancy
very useful.tu
I noticed that you only have a few videos on you tube. Do you have more lessons or videos somewhere else? Love your work. Signed starving artist.
Jeffery Rogers i went to her site and she has most of her books on.cd...which i like...
I think you'd be happier with the paint
Her voice is so irritating….can’t watch it
To much bla bla bla .....
Nothing. Special
Good question! Imitation gold leaf is made of copper and zinc, which will tarnish 2 ways: when exposed to ammonia (found in acrylic products0 and when exposed to air (if not sealed). So the best thing is to seal it with a fast drying acrylic (so the ammonia evaporates before tarnishing the leaf) and a gloss (to enhance the metal reflection - while matte products diminish the metal reflection). So you're correct in applying undiluted gloss mediums. If you apply it carefully (using a soft smooth brush without brushing excessively especially while it starts to dry and is tacky) this is your best method. A carefully applied layer of gloss acrylic will still diminish the super reflective leaf sheen, it will not do it too much and the leaf will still keep it's beauty and shine. If your brush application is not so good, try spraying a gloss coat on the leaf. I like Golden's Archival Varnish (gloss). This is what I use to go over the applied leaf, before I then start painting on it to add imagery. Since you mentioned that you are getting some tarnish after applying your medium, my guess is your medium is being applied too heavily and also perhaps some water is getting into your medium via your brush, making it slow drying enough to tarnish. I recommend you switch to the spray I mentioned. I hope this helps.
Nancy
Hi Tim,
My new book, Acrylic Illuminations, goes into great detail on this. In general, acrylic will stick to metal leaf, but only if the first layer of acrylic on the leaf is thinly applied with absolutely no water. To enhance adhesion I advise to first apply onto the leaf a thin layer of a gloss acrylic spray that uses mineral spirit solvent, such as Golden's Archival Varnish Spray Gloss. Companies that sell leaf also usually make an appropriate spray sealer. Over that spray layer, when dry, I like to apply a coat of a hard acrylic medium, such as Golden's GAC200. This product is a very thin (not diluted, though) formulated medium that is extra hard and adds adhesion. This product is also good for adding to paints to use on metal, like a sculpture that will remain outdoors, so it makes the paints extra durable. As a final coat over your painting on leaf, apply a few coats of a water soluble varnish, such as Golden's Polymer Varnish Gloss. I like to use a different varnish at the end then the varnish used first over the leaf. That way the final varnish won't redissolve the initially applied varnish.
Hope this helps!
Nancy
Wow. Nice!
dommage que votre livre n est pas en version francaise car j aurais aimée l acheter, vous avez beaucoup de talent...
Also, my book Acrylic Illuminations has a whole section on Gold and metal leaf applications, techniques and tips. This might help other questions that come up.
Hi Chava,
Your question is a good one as there is much confusion over what is real, imitation or composition leaf. That is because companies that sell leaf aren't very clear on their labeling. Composition Leaf and Imitation Leaf are the same thing. They come in squares about 5" x 5", and cost about 25 cents per square. The imitation or composition gold leaf is made of copper and zinc (imitating gold, and made of a composite metal - so that's why it's called imitation or composition leaf). Real gold leaf is usually stored in the back of a store in a vault, so you would need to ask for help to buy it as it is not found on shelves. The real gold leaf is sold in squares about 2" x 2" so much smaller and each leaf costs about $10. What a difference! My book Acrylic Illuminations explains much more about leaf and paint combinations if interested.
Nancy
Hi Ele, Please take a look at my video on TH-cam How to Apply Gold Metal Leaf. It has all the information you are asking about. I recommend using Golden's Archival Varnish gloss which comes in a spray can. This is great for small works. For larger sizes I brush apply Golden's MSA Varnish gloss. These are the same products, just one is in a spray and the MSA is for brush application. Real gold leaf will not tarnish, but still can be protected from handling with the same products I just mentioned. Imitation gold leaf will tarnish from air if not protected. So you are smart to consider sealing. Hope this helps!
Nancy
Nancy Reyner You're a STAR! thx so much for taking time to reply. Really appreciate your advice and knowledge.
Have a good day! : )