The Simple DIY Gold Leaf Project That Will Make Your Home Shine

While sometimes used for small projects, gold leaf is often overlooked when it comes to DIYing, renovating, decorating, and upcycling. Still, this material is a timeless element that was commonly used throughout history in art and architecture. For instance, it was used in ancient Greece to decorate the rooms of the pyramids and was also applied to statues to make them shine. Though sometimes still used in art, one place folks never think to add this material is in their homes as part of its structure. If added along the doorframes, window frames, or molding, gold leaf would make your home dazzle. For instance, TikTok user @themoodyhaus covered her doorway with gold leaf, giving her home a pop of glow, especially with the ambient lighting in her adjacent rooms. You could do the same to your home to help bring a little sparkle into your space.

While this material could be added to doorways or arches in your home, it could also add charm to a wall if you're an artist who enjoys painting murals or a novice who loves using stencils. It can spruce up any area in the house, and you can customize it to fit your tastes. DIYing with gold leaf can sound complicated if you've unfamiliar with the material, but it's actually pretty easy to use. Each gold leaf is pressed into a thin sheet with a backing, making applying it to just about any surface fairly simple.

For this DIY, you'll need gold leaf sheets, gilding adhesive, sealant, sandpaper, and a small fluffy brush. You can purchase real or imitation gold leaf sheets, depending on your budget. Amazon sells 100 imitation gold leaf sheets for about $6, while Walmart sells 50 genuine gold leaf sheets that are smaller in size for under $9. Amazon also sells a gilding water-based adhesive and sealant set for about $14. It's also vital to note that TikToker @themoodyhaus painted her doorway red first to enhance the gold tone. Underpainting with red or other warm tones adds warmth and enrichens the gold hue, but this step is optional.

Before starting your DIY, it's essential to prep your space by laying out a plastic sheet and applying painter's tape. You may also want a vacuum on hand during application to pick up all the small foil pieces. After prepping, sand down the surface, prime it, and paint it red, then allow it to dry. If you don't want to add a warm glow, skip the primer and paint. Then, add the gilding adhesive and apply the gold leaf sheets one at a time, overlapping them so that there aren't gaps. Next, take your brush and remove all the excess gold leaf from the edges while working it into the surface. Layer any extra sheets over spotty areas and go over it with your brush. Finally, apply the sealant and let it dry completely.

One of the best things you can do before applying the gold leaf is to turn off any fans and air conditioners so that the sheets don't blow around while you're working. Plus, when you brush away the excess, the gold leaf specks will be tiny and may float the air; if you leave your fan on, they could spread throughout your home. Also be cautious during this project, as you don't want to inhale any of the metal foil. On the other hand, gold leaf is fragile, so it's crucial to work slowly and patiently with each leaf so that they don't break and you don't have to apply multiple layers. Plus, work in small sections and one thin layer at a time so you don't end up with a clumpy surface.

If you decide to customize your archway with stencils, apply one stencil at a time. You can place the stencils over a newly-painted surface to make the gold leaf stand out. Use tape to keep the stencil in place, add your adhesive over the top, and apply the gold leaf with your brush. Finish off the look by sealing it. Also, don't be afraid to tap into your creative side and try coming up with different designs you could include. Plus, find other places in your home that could use some extra shine like furniture legs, vases, or window trim — you can even use gold leaf for a stunning mirror makeover.