Custom Framing and Burnishing: The Secret to Stunning Gold Leaf Frames
We offer many custom framing options at Capricorn Framing in San Francisco. For clients who want a touch of true luxury, we recommend gold leaf frames that elevate any piece. One of the key techniques that make gold leaf frames so exquisite is burnishing—a meticulous process that creates a radiant, reflective finish. This centuries-old craft adds an unparalleled level of elegance to frames, but due to its complexity and labor-intensive nature, it comes at a premium cost. Let’s explore what makes burnishing so special and why investing in a gold leaf frame is worth every penny.
What is Burnishing in Gold Leaf Custom Framing?
Burnishing is a technique used to create a mirror-like sheen on gold leaf surfaces. Unlike matte gilding, which has a soft, brushed texture, burnished gold leaf gleams with a smooth, high-polish finish. This effect is achieved through an elaborate process involving traditional materials and tools, including gesso, bole (a fine clay layer), gold leaf, and an agate burnisher—a highly polished stone used to gently press and smooth the gold leaf to perfection.
The Gold Leaf Process: A Step-by-Step Look
Achieving a flawless gold leaf frame requires precision, patience, and expertise. Here’s a breakdown of how this process unfolds:
1. Preparing the Frame with Gesso
The foundation of a burnished gold leaf frame begins with multiple layers of gesso—a mixture of chalk and glue—applied to the wood. This creates a smooth and absorbent surface for the next steps. Once dry, the gesso is meticulously sanded to remove any imperfections.
2. Applying the Clay Bole
To achieve the rich glow characteristic of burnished gold leaf, artisans apply layers of bole—a fine, colored clay mixed with glue. Traditionally, red or yellow bole is used, as it enhances the warmth and depth of the gold leaf. The bole could also be black, blue, pink, purple or green, depending on the desired effect in conjunction with the leaf color. The bole is sanded before the gold leaf is laid to ensure a flawless surface.
3. Laying the Gold Leaf
Gold leaf is incredibly delicate, often as thin as a few micrometers. Skilled gilders carefully handle the fragile sheets with a special brush known as a gilder’s tip, laying them onto the prepared surface. To adhere the gold leaf, the bole is dampened with an aqueous solution, allowing the gold to stick securely.
4. The Burnishing Process
Once the gold leaf is set, the burnishing stage begins. Using an agate stone burnisher, the artisan gently but firmly presses the gold leaf, smoothing and polishing it to create a high-gloss finish. This step requires a deft hand, as too much pressure can tear the gold, while too little will fail to achieve the desired luster.
Is Gold Leaf Burnishing Worth the Investment?
Absolutely! Here are some of the factors that define the cost of your gold leafed frame:
Time and Labor
Burnishing is a painstaking process that requires hours—sometimes days—of work to complete. Each layer must be meticulously applied, dried, and polished to perfection. The skill required to achieve a flawless finish takes years to master, making it a specialized craft.
High-Quality Materials
Gold leaf itself is a precious material, available in various karats, with 22k and 23k gold being the most commonly used for high-end custom framing. In addition, the bole, gesso, and agate burnishing tools add to the overall cost due to their artisanal quality.
Artisanal Expertise
Few framers possess the knowledge and experience to execute true burnished gold leaf framing. The level of craftsmanship involved means that only highly trained artisans can perform this technique, which adds to the overall expense.
A burnished gold leaf frame offers:
- Timeless Elegance – The radiant finish complements classic and contemporary artwork alike.
- Longevity – Properly crafted gold leaf frames can last for generations, maintaining their brilliance over time.
- Unique Beauty – No two burnished frames are exactly alike, making each piece a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
- Valuable – Custom framing a meaningful piece of artwork or a photograph can allow the piece to become a valuable heirloom, passed down and cherished overtime. Custom framing in gold leaf adds extra value and signifies that the piece is truly special.
Elevate Your Artwork with Capricorn Framing
At Capricorn Framing, we offer closed corner frames with gold leaf finishes, meticulously crafted to highlight the beauty of your artwork. Our expert gilders use traditional techniques, including burnishing, to create stunning gold leaf frames that transform your piece into a museum-quality display. If you’re looking for a frame that exudes luxury and quality craftsmanship, consider the brilliance of burnished gold leaf.
Visit our San Francisco picture framing store to explore our selection of custom framing options, or contact us today to discuss how we can create the perfect frame for your piece.