Imitation gold leaf (also known as schlag metal, dutch metal or composition leaf) is a metal leaf made from a brass alloy that has been hammered into very fine sheets for use in gilding. Imitation gold leaf is a cost-effective alternative to genuine gold leaf, offering a metallic surface which is shinier than a gold leaf surface generally. It doesn't have such a soft or subtle surface as genuine gold leaf but is often used as a substitute where budget dictates.
This product is supplied as loose leaves in bundles of 500 leaves with each leaf having a dimension of 160 x 160mm. Each leaved is interleaved with each other in a bundle, with tissue paper separators between set amounts of leaf, please check the product pages for more details. In order to remove the leaf from the book we recommend you use a gilders knife slid under the leaf if you are placing it onto a cushion to cut into smaller pieces. This leaf is too heavy to pick up with a gilders tip, although it can be handled directly if done so delicately and with clean, grease-free fingers. When picking up the leaf with fingers we advise you carefully lifting the leaf by the corners. Loose leaf is suitable for most surfaces but is usually used for more intricate and delicate work - for example, carved mouldings where transfer leaf is unsuitable.
Imitation gold leaf will tarnish over time and requires sealing to protect it, especially if the leaf is to be used in a high traffic area or if the gilding is to be touched or handled regularly. We supply a number of lacquers and varnish that are suited for protecting metal leaf; in particular, we recommend Whitson's Universal Lacquer due to its hardwearing nature and ease of application.
Imitation gold leaf is available in two grades with the Superior grade being manufactured in Italy to the highest standards
Size: 160 mm x 160 mm (one bundle will do over 12m2 of flat surface)
Each bundle contains 500 leaves
