1000+ questions about gold, silver, and metal leaf; gilding supplies, tools, techniques; edibles; craftwork; and troubleshooting.
Gold foil paper can last a long time when the correct material, preparation, size, and protection are used. Exposure, handling, moisture, and sealer choice affect durability.
Gold foil paper durability depends on material, backing, adhesive, surface, and exposure.
Some foils tarnish, some are transfer films, and some are food products. Exterior use or sealing should be confirmed for the exact foil.
Most failures come from the wrong material, poor surface preparation, fingerprints, moisture, abrasion, missed tack window, or incompatible sealer. Food questions should be answered with edible products only; exterior questions should be answered with exterior-suitable materials and preparation.
The surface determines the gilding system. Wood, frames, furniture, glass, walls, ceilings, metal, paper, leather, and exterior signs need different preparation, size, leaf, and protection.
Start by identifying surface and exposure, then clean and stabilize the substrate, smooth/seal/prime or ground as needed, choose the right leaf and format, apply the correct size, wait for tack, lay leaf, brush, burnish if appropriate, and seal only when required.
Wood is porous; frames may need gesso, bole, or water gilding; furniture needs wear planning; glass may require reverse-glass technique; metal needs cleaning/degreasing; walls and ceilings need coverage and access planning.