Leaf vs. foil

    • 6 posts
    April 1, 2018 4:37 PM EDT
    Oh-oh, it has happened to me. I have bought silver leaf instead of silver foil (didnt know thats a difference in thickness). I know its fragile and I know how to handle it, but will it actually work under the enamel like the foil did? Or did I just waist my money)-;?
    • Moderator
    • 114 posts
    April 2, 2018 7:48 AM EDT

    Hi Anna,

    Your not alone - I think there are a few of us who have at one time confused leaf with foil - 

    Silver Leaf can be used for enameling but it should NOT be used in place of foil - The leaf is so very very thin that you can barely hold it - Save it for using on a final firing - stone the enamel surface - put on a holding agent and apply the leaf - it will adhere to the surface but once its on - its almost impossible to move it around without tearing- Then fire until the enamel coat glosses and the leaf has adhered to the surface.  The leaf effects will have fine cracks and the enamel will show through. I would experiment first before trying it on a favorite piece. 

    • 35 posts
    November 15, 2018 3:31 PM EST

    Hello Trish, just read your reply re silver leaf which I didn't know could be used as a top coat on piece.  I imagine that gold leaf could be used in the same way.

    Thank you,

    Rosemary H.