Gilding protection
Tools:
• Soft bristle brush • Dewaxed shellac or synthetic protection
• Acrylic paint for exterior
Once the leaf application is complete, you can apply a finishing varnish to the decorated surface to help preserve it from the risk of potential damage. Applying protection is optional for high-title gold leaf work. However, it is always recommended for gilding with silver leaf or gold leaf with a high silver content in the alloy as they are prone to oxidation risk.
It is always advisable to apply a protective coat with acrylic varnishes (and not with shellac) on gildings intended for outdoor environments, in order to safeguard them from damage caused by atmospheric agents and thermal fluctuations and ensure a longer lifespan.
For gilding elements intended for indoor environments, it is recommended to apply one or two coats of natural dewaxed shellac-based varnish, using a soft bristle brush. In the case of silver leaf, to avoid altering its shade, it is preferable to apply extra-clear dewaxed shellac or another transparent protective varnish.
Before proceeding with the application of a surface protection, it is important to remember that this will in any case alter the appearance of the leaf in terms of shade and brilliance.