Gold leaf

[mel]

I have just inherited a book of gold leaf from a calligrapher, so obviously my thoughts turned to using it on beads, but havent seen a great deal of info about how to use and what works/doesnt work. Can anyone help with ideas/tips or direct me to some info? I'm not really set up with enough gear for fuming.

[Steampunkglass]

OOO! That's easy! Loads you can do with gold leaf & glass, it's easier to use than silver I find as it has a slightly higher melting point so tends not to 'vanish' like silver does. (Don't worry about fuming, you can get loads of effects without)

Easiest thing is to lay a bit of it on you're marver and roll and warm bead into it, give it a little rub with back of rake/spare thick mandrel/lump of clean metal! to help it stick. Then of course you can lay clear over it which starts breaking it up, just go wild and see what it does! Encased I find best as won't rub off then, and helps show it up, also try encasing in transparent colour, looks great over transparent lime green. Also save any little flecks, over dark blue or burgandy (encased to give a sheen) looks really regal.

Handling; tricky, some people cut the whole book into strips or squares, but you need a strong nerve and razor sharp scissors. Dust your fingers with a little talc helps stop the gold sticking to you, but try  not to let it get onto your marver where it will transfer into the glass. I have got a little mini tutorial on my website if you want to be bored, read more! http://www.steampunkglass.com/page12.htm

[mel]

Many thanks, the tut is really good by the way,very clear. Will def give me an edge to handling leaf better. Just wanted to hear that good results are possible, rather than an expensive way to get poopy-looking beads, so now I'm inspired and ready to rock. Will post some piccies if I have any success.

[Steampunkglass]

Glad to hear the tutorial was helpful, good luck with the beads and if you need any more help give us a shout