Gilding wooden products has a long history that dates back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, gilding became popular in Europe, especially in decorative arts and religious artifacts.
Materials and tools needed for gilding wooden products:
- Gold leaf or powder: High-quality gold for application.
- Primer or adhesive: To secure the gold on the surface.
- Brushes and applicators: For applying adhesive and gold.
- Varnish or finish: To protect the gilded surface.
At the MIRT furniture factory, proud of their gilding workshop, they master a full range of techniques to create luxurious and refined finishes. MIRT experts understand that gilding is not just a coating; it is an art that adds value and elegance to products. Therefore, both traditional, time-tested methods and modern technologies are used to meet the most discerning tastes.
The Gilding Process
1. Surface Preparation:
- The wooden surface must be thoroughly cleaned, sanded, and primed.
2. Adhesive Application:
- Special glue or primer is applied to the prepared surface to help the gold adhere.
3. Gold Application:
- Thin gold leaf or powder is applied to the adhesive-covered surface and smoothed with a soft brush or special tool.
4. Finishing:
- The gilded surface is coated with varnish or finish for protection and a glossy appearance.
The Arsenal of Gilding Techniques Used at Our Factory
- Gold Leaf Gilding: This pinnacle of craftsmanship involves the use of the thinnest sheets of genuine gold. At MIRT, they work with gold leaf of various karats, ensuring unmatched brilliance and resistance to tarnishing for years. Gold leaf is ideal for decorating intricate carved elements, highlighting each detail with exceptional elegance. This method is often used for restoring antique furniture and creating unique interior pieces due to its durability and noble appearance.
- Imitation Gold Gilding: To achieve a striking appearance at lower costs, MIRT uses imitation gold leaf. High-quality imitation gold, carefully selected to mimic the color and shine of real gold, is used here. It’s important to note that imitation gold is intended for indoor use and requires protective varnish to prevent oxidation. MIRT artisans use special varnishes to ensure long-lasting protection and maintain the gilding’s brilliance.
Depending on the surface type and desired effect, we apply various gilding methods:
- Glue-Based Gilding (on gesso): This complex technique requires high skill and is used to create deep, almost three-dimensional gilding effects. Gesso—a special primer made from glue and chalk—is carefully sanded and polished before applying gold leaf. This method is often used for gilding wooden frames, icons, and other items with textured surfaces.
- Oil-Based Gilding (on mordant): Known for its resistance to external influences, this method is suitable for gilding furniture used both indoors and outdoors. Mordant—a special oil-based adhesive—ensures strong adhesion of gold to the surface. This technique is often used for restoring building facades and decorating garden furniture.
In MIRT's gilding workshop, every stage of the process—from surface preparation to final polishing—is carried out with meticulous attention to detail. They guarantee high-quality and long-lasting gilding that gives furniture an unparalleled charm and luxury.
