FAQ - Choose, Buy, Apply

Buy gold leaf from a supplier that can identify the leaf by karat, format, brand, and intended use, not just by color.

For decorative gilding, decide first whether the job needs genuine gold leaf, imitation metal leaf, foil, or edible gold. Genuine gold leaf is used for traditional gilding, signs, frames, architectural details, restoration, and fine decorative work; edible gold belongs only on food; imitation metal leaf is a separate lower-cost decorative material.

If you are buying for a real project, also choose the handling format before ordering. Loose leaf is best for traditional work and detailed surfaces, patent leaf is easier to place on flat or exterior work, and ribbon or roll leaf is useful for lines, borders, lettering, and long runs.