Gilding candlesticks

Resene paint effects projects, project 02

Gilding adds glamour to ordinary household items giving them a sense of history and opulence.

Candlesticks with a gilt paint finish

Create a gilt finish on candlesticks

You will need

Candlesticks made of plaster, wood, metal or papier mache
Flat artist bristle brush
Resene Art Action Student Acrylic Black
Rub-on metallic wax in gold or Resene FX Metallic tinted to Resene Gold

Project tips

Try painting your basecoat colour onto a small piece of card, allow to dry, then apply the rub – on metallics using different techniques until you find your favourite application method.

How to gild candlesticks

Step 1 - gilding candlesticks
Step 1

Step 2 -gilding candlesticks
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Step 3 - gilding candlesticks
Step 3

Step 1: Apply one or two coats of black paint and leave to dry.

Step 2: Using your finger (or a cotton cloth wrapped around your finger) pick up a little gold wax. Be careful not to get too much wax as it is better to apply a little first and then add more if you need it, rather than try and remove any excess.

Rub-on metallics may be applied with a brush, finger or a cloth onto plaster, metal, wood or leather in a variety of techniques depending on the effect you are trying to achieve. If you prefer a brushed on gold effect, use Resene Enamacryl Metallic tinted to Gold applied lightly by brush in place of the rub-on metallic wax.

Step 3: Rub the wax gently onto the raised areas of the candlesticks. Apply multiple coats if necessary to get the desired effect.

Always ensure lit candles are under adult supervision. Always extinguish all candles before going to sleep. Replace candles when they are at least 20mm from the top edge of the candleholder.