Clay Colors for Water Gilded Picture Frames from Frames by Edward Wright

Click the colors above to view a close-up image of the clay colors we use to water gild precious gold and silver leafed frames.

Frames by Edward Wright uses old world techniques in water gilding our precious metal frames. After gesso is applied we sand the frame to a smooth surface which will intensify the brilliant gold or silver finish. We apply a base coat of yellow clay, and then apply one of eight clay colors before water gilding gold or silver leaf. The clay color is chosen to coordinate with the artwork which will be placed inside the frame, as the hue of the delicate gold or silver leaf is affected by the underlying clay color.