*This is a digital item, no physical item will be sent*
 
Discover the timeless art of shell gold, a centuries old technique used by manuscript illuminators to paint with real gold.
In this beautifully illustrated guide I share my full process for making and using shell gold, from raw leaf to luminous, burnished detail.
Whether you’re new to gilding or looking to expand your practice, this book will give you the skills to confidently incorporate gold into your work.

Shell gold is one of the most rewarding materials I work with. It takes a little patience, but the results are truly special. I hope this book gives you the confidence to explore it and make it your own.

What You’ll Learn:
✨Make your own shell gold from loose leaf or skewings
✨Achieve a smooth, workable gold mixture
✨Apply shell gold for fine lettering and detailed painting
✨Build layers for depth and richness
✨Burnish your gold to a soft, glowing shine
✨Avoid common mistakes and troubleshoot issues

What’s Included:
A complete step-by-step guide to making shell gold
Three guided projects:
Lettering
Decorative painting
A patterned border design
Downloadable templates
Photographic walkthroughs of every stage
Links to video tutorials for additional guidance
Inspiration and real examples of finished work
Advice on materials, tools, and sealants

This book is ideal for:
Artists and illustrators
Calligraphers and lettering artists
Anyone interested in traditional craft techniques
Beginners curious about working with gold
Those looking to elevate their artwork with metallic detail
No prior experience with gilding is required.

Why Shell Gold?
Unlike metallic paints, shell gold is made from real gold. Once burnished, it catches the light in a way that is soft, luminous, and impossible to replicate with imitation materials.
It allows for precision, subtlety, and a unique finish that transforms even the simplest designs.
 
Format
Digital download (PDF)
Instant access after purchase

Important Information
This eBook is for personal use only. Please do not share or redistribute the file or included templates.

This is the second book in a series on gilding techniques.
Book One: Acrylic & Miniatum Size covers traditional gold leaf application for flat and raised gilding.