This year, we once again held our “Gold Leaf Day” event! Our instructor was Mr. Masaji Yamamoto, representative of Gakubuchi no Yamamoto. During the workshop, participants applied gold leaf to postcard-sized frames and gave them their own unique, antique-style finish using a rub-through technique. Here’s a look at what we got up to on the day.
Before the workshop began, the artisans at Gakubuchi no Yamamoto prepared hand-carved frame mouldings especially for us. We also showed a video introducing the frame-making process, giving everyone a chance to picture what their own frame might look like. The excitement was already built before we even got started!
A gold-leafed frame has a beautiful, lustrous shine. This time, however, we took things one step further. By gently rubbing some of the gold leaf to reveal the colour underneath, participants set out to create their own original frames with an atmospheric, antique-style look.
We prepared plain white frames for everyone to work on. These wooden frames had already been given a base treatment of Gofun, a traditional white pigment made from shell powder, and urethane.
First, participants used markers to paint the frames in whatever colours they liked. It was an unexpected first step, and everyone was surprised!
Some carefully planned their colours, while others simply followed their instincts and layered colours as they went. Some chose not to add any colour at all. There were so many different approaches! Even us, who were there to lend a hand, were excited to see how each frame would turn out.
Next, participants applied the water-based gold-leaf adhesive “KUTSUKI MAX” to the surface and began applying the gold leaf.
“I’m finding it difficult to apply the gold leaf.”
“I can’t pick up the gold leaf!”
At first, we heard comments like these from the participants. But after working through sheet after sheet of gold leaf, everyone soon became more confident and practiced.
Some carefully filled every gap, while others kept applying for the gold leaf until they were completely happy with the result. Even the way they applied the gold leaf was unique to each person.
As the frames gradually turned golden and the finished pieces began to take shape, excited voices of “Beautiful!” could be heard around the room. Our staff were all smiling, too.
Finally, it was time for the finishing touch. Participants rubbed the surface with steel wool to remove some of the gold leaf and create an antique-style finish.
Some participants had initially said, “I worked so hard to apply the gold leaf beautifully—I want to leave it just like this!” But in the end, they decided to give the rub-through process a try.
As the base colours slowly peeked through and the shine of the gold leaf softened into a more matt finish, each frame began to take on its own character. The amount of pressure used, the number of times the surface was rubbed, and even the colours chosen for the base all made a difference. And just like that, each participant had created a frame that was truly their own.
The workshop wasn’t just about making a frame. Participants also had the chance to learn about a variety of finishing techniques. It was especially memorable to hear “Ohhh!” from both the participants and us as they discovered each new technique. There was quite a lot to do during the workshop, but seeing everyone’s excited faces and how much they were enjoying themselves put us at ease.
At the end of the workshop, everyone gathered a group photo with their finished creations.
Thank you so much to everyone who joined us, and to our wonderful instructor, Mr. Yamamoto.
We’re planning to hold the “Gold Leaf Day” workshop again next year. We hope to see you there!
