Nailed It. DIY Gold Leafing.

I have made a particularly interesting discovery during experimenting with Mont Marte's Imitation Gold Leafing this week. For those of you who are not familiar with the medium, Gold Leaf is essentially gold that is hammered into thin sheets that become used for gilding material. Traditionally it is used in art on picture frames, decorative paintings and mixed media. For example Mont Marte Joe shows you his version of Gustav Klimt artwork using the imitation foil.

FUN FACT:  Culinary use of gold leaf is seen in some liquors, desserts and drinks. 

I have certainly veered away from traditional subjects like decoration ornamental art and transferred this medium into body and nail art. A feat never achieved by Mont Marte yet. Hooray! Please read below for some tips on how to use gold leafing on nails and hopefully this will provide some fun inspiration.

1. To get the exact design you want paint on with a fine brush some leafing size (a form of adhesive specially designed for applying with gold leaf).
2.  For a quicker result - use a hair dryer as seen above, this creates a tacky surface, perfect for placing the leaf on.
3. Always apply with a soft brush. Mont Marte Watercolour brushes are great for this. 
4. Be gentle - The Gold Leaf is extremely fragile.

 4. Get creative with your designs. To create the marbled effect above add small pieces at a time when the surface is tacky enough. 

 5. Use the soft brush to take off any unwanted corners, as seen above.

6. Do not be afraid to get intricate with your designs. As long as leave leave enough drying time or use the hair dryer you can achieve the design should just appear before your eyes! 

 Please leave any questions or comments below!