I’m a little bit obsessed with gold leaf at the moment, and with metals being such a huge trend in homewares right now, it’s a great time to have a flutter with this versatile materials. Gold leaf can be used to give a new lease of life to almost anything, so I thought I’d give my huge hoard of jars a make over!
Here’s how to make your very own gold leaf jars – perfect to use as a vase or a tea light holder.
WHAT YOU NEED:
- Gold leaf sheets – most craft stores will have these, they also come in a variety of colours such as copper and silver
- Gold leaf adhesive
- A jars
- A stiff brush
- A damp cloth
1.Give your jar a good clean, and cover your workspace with some paper. Gold leafing is a messy craft (you’ll be sure to get gold leaf in places you didn’t know existed), so make sure you do it in a space with no gusts of wind or fans!
2.Apply a very thin layer of the gold leaf adhesive. If you want a mottled effect such as I’ve done, then apply in a haphazard fashion – otherwise, apply a even layer of the adhesive all over the jar.
3.Be patient – you’ll need to wait around 5 – 15 minutes for the adhesive to go tacky. Don’t be tempted to apply the gold leaf before – it won’t stick!
4.Pick up a sheet of gold leaf using the tissue paper backing. If your hands feel sweaty or sticky, a good trick is to apply some talcum powder before you start, or use cotton gloves.
5.You may need a few sheets to cover your jar, as you apply, press down gently. When you have applied enough sheets to cover your jar, use a damp cloth to make sure that everything has adhered to the adhesive. Leave for 5 minutes.
6.Take your stiff brush and gently start to brush out your gold leaf. The goal here is to remove the bits that haven’t stuck to the jar. If you’re unhappy with the finish, you can always redo the process.
7.Pop in a tealight or some flowers, and you’re good to go!
Gold leaf can be used to upcycle all sorts of brick-a-brack such as ornaments, table wear, candles and photo frames. What would you like to use gold leaf for?
