This is a practical course aimed at beginners, although more experienced students are welcome. Over four days, you will master the art of traditional water and oil gilding. Using skilled processes, you will prepare a picture frame, decorative object, letter of the alphabet and picture rail for gilding with 23.75ct gold leaf, as well as learning the artistic skill of antiquing them.

Included in the course is a field trip to gain first-hand experience regarding historical gilded frames. When you have completed this course, you will have the skills to make and prepare gesso using a traditional recipe and how to lay it smoothly as well as the techniques to prepare, gild and burnish gold leaf on any bare wood surface. One of the things you will gild is a letter of the alphabet. Students need to inform us when they book which letter they would like to gild.

Amelia Bedson

Residential: £590 Non-residential: £465 (incl. materials at £150 and field trip)