Workshop: Gold Leaf Gilding and Acrylic Painting 

Instructor: Yoshiko Ratliff
Date/Time: Sunday, September 27, 1-5pm
Cost: $130
All levels (adults) at Falls Church Arts Gallery

Register: https://fallschurcharts.org/gold-leaf-gilding-and-acrylic-painting-sept-27-2026/

Discover the ancient art of gilding in this hands-on workshop exploring the luminous world of gold leaf – and then painting on it. The class will cover:

• Gold leaf materials – real gold, imitation, and other metals (silver, copper, variegated), and when to use each
• Preparing your panel – applying a base paint layer and adhesive, and creating the smooth, receptive surface that gives gold its characteristic depth and glow
• The gilding process – laying and pressing the leaf, patching gaps, and burnishing to a brilliant finish
• Painting on gold – sealing and preparing the gilded surface, then working on top with acrylic.

The class opens with a live demonstration walking through the full process – from bare panel to gilded surface – explaining material choices, timing, and how the gold informs the painting that follows. Students will then work through each stage with individualized guidance and feedback throughout the day.

Whether you are new to gilding or a painter looking to add this centuries-old technique to your practice, this workshop will open a luminous new dimension in your work.

Gold Leaf Gilding and Acrylic Painting Supply List:

• 9 x 12 x 1/8 Ampersand gesso board

• Acrylic paints (fluid is recommended, including dark color – red oxide is recommended)

• Acrylic medium: Gloss glazing liquid, Open acrylic medium

• Brushes (soft bristle: flat – 1.5” for applying adhesive and your favorite brushes for painting)

• An image you want to paint (landscape is recommended)

• Wax paper

• Cheese cloth

• Soft rag

* Imitation gold leaf, adhesive and mediums (for gilding) are included in the fee.