THE GOLDEN TOUCH

Or in this case, the copper touch.

My previous post documented my infatuation with warm metallics, and you too can join in on the obsession with a simple DIY project using metallic leaf! Add a little gilded goodness to almost any surface--wood, plastic, glass, ceramic, metal, plaster, paper--you name it--you can bling it with metallic leafing.

Here's a brief tutorial:

You will need:
-Metal leaf (I've seen gold, copper, and silver. I used copper here.)
-Metal leaf adhesive
-A couple brushes (foam brushes/soft paint brushes)
-Metal leaf sealer
-Object to be metallic-ized (I did a small plant pot.)

1. After making sure your project surface is clean, apply a thin layer of metal leaf adhesive. Wait about 45 minutes for the adhesive to dry and get tacky.

2. Carefully apply a metal leaf sheet onto the tacky project surface, and use a soft brush to remove excess metal leaf. If you find the leaf too delicate to handle with your hands, you can press a piece of wax paper to your metal leaf sheet (so that it sticks to the wax paper), and apply to your surface. Continue until surface is covered as desired. It's difficult to handle the leaf without tearing, but it's all good if it does tear! I think the leafing looks better layered and a little distressed.

3. Apply metal leaf sealer, let dry, and BLING, you have a glamorous new accessory!

I've already added leafing to a couple planters, a clock, and some curtain rod finials. I'd cover my entire body in gold leafing if I could.