Large Scale Gold Leaf Wall Art

4 Materials
$40
3 Hours
Easy

The post was created in collaboration with Speedball Art and their product Mona Lisa Metal Leaf.

Creating your own wall art can be a fun and inexpensive way to dress up a room. DIY large-scale art is a great option for unique decor that you won’t find anywhere else.

One way to create unique wall art is by adding texture. In this post, you will learn how to use metal leaf on canvas to create one-of-a-kind home decor.

First, determine what size wall art you want to create. In this project, I am using 2 white canvases measuring about 10 x 20 inches each. These 3 will fit perfectly over a queen-size bed. 

Next, use a pencil and paper to sketch a design for each canvas. I chose to do different geometric patterns on each one using shapes and colors that will tie the trio together. 

Finally, choose paint colors and metal leaf that compliment the design and the room they will hang in. 

Gold metal leaf looks beautiful when paired with just about any color. I chose pale pink and mint green paint for this project. 

To begin, use a ruler and pencil to draw the geometric design on the canvas. It’s best to place a book under the canvas so you have a solid surface to work on. Consider cutting stencils from cardstock to draw the pattern on the canvas.

Once the shapes are drawn, fill each one in with paint.

Determine where the gold metal leaf will be added and paint that shape with a light color. Metal leaf adheres nicely to a nonporous surface so adding the paint will help it stick well.

Allow the paint to dry and erase any visible pencil marks left on the canvas. 

Now it’s time to add the metal leaf. When you work with this material for the first time I highly recommend a Metal Leaf Starter Kit from Speedbal l. This kit comes with everything you need to get started learning how to apply gold leaf.

In the kit, you’ll find adhesive, metal leaf sheets, a sealer, and an instruction manual. 

Start by applying a thin layer of adhesive to the shape where you will be adding the metal leaf. The adhesive goes on milky, you’ll need to let it sit for about 30 minutes until it is clear and tacky.

Once tacky, it’s time to add the metal leaf sheets. A few tips. 


  • Ensure your hands are clean and dry or wear cotton gloves. The leaf will stick to your fingers. 
  • Use a soft brush for this step and work slowly. 

Place a metal leaf sheet on top of the adhesive and using a soft brush press it down. Once it adheres, use the same brush to pull away the excess metal leaf. These excess pieces can be applied to other areas covered with adhesive.

Once all the adhesive is covered, use the brush to remove any remaining gold flakes. 

To protect your artwork, add a thin layer of sealer over the metal leaf. This will help protect the metal leaf and keep it looking shiny and beautiful.

Metal leaf can be applied, using this technique, to any nonporous surface. Try using it on a vase, a frame, or a figurine. The metal leaf sheets give a look and texture that can’t be achieved with paint.

This trio of geometric wall art adds a pop of color and shine to my bedroom. I was able to create something unique and use colors that complement the room. 

If you are ready to make wall art using metal leaf, pick up a starter kit from Speedball and give it a try.

Resources for this project:
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Sarah Vanderkooy
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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