Guest Blogger: Joy Beadworks

I have been asked by Beckie to Guest Blog and I have to say, it’s my pleasure! This is Marjorie from over at Joy Beadworks. I offer a line of interchangeable jewelry on Etsy, but I usually blog about craft tutorials, home decor, and my humorous, crazy and happy life with 4 kids. You are invited to join me anytime.

Today, I’d like to show you how easy it is to gold leaf. Nothing says fall like a little autumn shimmer.

Supplies:
gold leaf sheets like the ones shown (you can also get silver and copper leaf )
Leaf adhesive
Brown (or black) acrylic paint (optional)

You’ll also need something to “leaf”. I chose some pears. Choose something with a smooth surface, and keep in mind that the base color of your object will show behind the leaf. (If you don’t like the color of your leafing item, paint it first.)

First, paint the item with the glue. You’ll need to wait 5 minutes until the glue gets tacky, then take out the gold leaf, and wrap it on. I like mine a little crackly and I wanted more of the background to show through. The sheets are incredibly thin, and stick easily to the glue. You really can’t make a mistake.

Then, with a dry brush, pat down any remaining areas that you want covered, and remove any excess leaf. You may need to add additional glue in spots, and then apply the leaf as you please.

In order to slightly tone down the gold, and to give it more texture, I painted the pears with a very light coat of brown acrylic paint. The paint also acted as a sealant.

Be sure to link back with your leafing project, we’d love to take a peek. I’m thinking pumpkins with copper leaf would look amazing.

Thank you Beckie for the Guest Spot!