The Art of Gilding – Gold, Silver & Copper Leaf - Tuesday 17th February, 1.30 to 5.30 pm
The Art of Gilding
Working with Gold, Silver & Copper Leaf
About the workshop
Gilding is an age-old decorative technique that brings light, warmth, and character to everyday objects. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be introduced to working with metal leaf to add subtle shimmer, highlights, and decorative detail to a range of surfaces.
The focus is not on perfection, but on understanding how gilding works and how different finishing techniques can change the final look. You’ll learn how gold, silver, and copper leaf can be finished in different ways to create softer, aged, or time-worn effects, and how these techniques can be used to repair, enhance, or transform everyday items into something special.
Alongside the practical work, the workshop also includes a brief introduction to the history of gilding, offering context and inspiration for how this decorative skill has been used across time, from fine detail to architectural surfaces.
Is this workshop for me?
This workshop is suitable for beginners and requires no previous experience. It is ideal if you’re curious about learning a traditional decorative skill in a relaxed, accessible way, whether for creative enjoyment, small projects at home, or future use on furniture and larger surfaces.
The approach is supportive and encouraging, with clear guidance throughout so you can learn the technique with confidence.
What you’ll learn and leave with
- An introduction to gilding and its historical use
- How to work with gold, silver, and copper leaf
- How to apply metal leaf using traditional loose leaf techniques
- How different finishing methods can be used to soften and age metal leaf
- How gilding can be used to repair, enhance, or highlight objects
- Three gilded pieces created during the workshop
- The confidence to use gilding on everyday items, furniture, or decorative surfaces at home
How the workshop runs
The workshop is structured step by step, with demonstrations followed by time to work on your own pieces at a comfortable pace. You will work on three different surfaces to understand how the same gilding techniques can be adapted and finished in different ways.
The atmosphere is relaxed and focused, with guidance throughout to ensure everyone progresses together and leaves with a clear understanding of the process.
Practical details
- Duration: 4 hours
- Price: €60
- Included: All materials needed for the workshop, plus tea, coffee, and homemade cake
Good to know
All materials are provided. You will work on three different surfaces during the workshop and take home three gilded items. The techniques taught can be replicated on furniture, decorative objects, and even walls.
Cancellation policy
Bookings are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your place to a future date once, or gift your place to someone else. If the workshop is cancelled by Atelier Vintage Vert, you will receive a full refund or the option to transfer.