Gilding course

Participants will learn about and try out different methods of gilding, from the oldest “guazzo”, through the “missione/mordant”, to the alternative methods developed by Koelner towards the end of the last century.

In addition to the methods of gilding, participants will learn about and try out gilding techniques that were also used in the past and are still used today (engraving, pastiglia, punching, mass ornamentation, sgraffito, imitation gold on silver or mecca, gilding aging technique).

Scope of the course

The course introduces students to:

the basics and the preparation of documentation before work begins
the selection and preparation of materials and tools for gilding
preparation and cleaning of gilding surfaces
the basics of water gilding (guazzo)
the basics of oil gilding (missione / mordant)
the use of modern gilding systems (Koelner techniques)
the implementation of various decorative techniques (engraving, stippling, pastiglia)
the production of ornamentation and textured surfaces
imitation gold techniques (Mecca)
techniques for ageing and patinating gilding
finishing and protection of gilded surfaces
practical work on your own or prepared objects

Information for students

Participants are welcome to bring small objects on which they would like to practice gilding and gilding techniques.

More about the manuals

When it takes place

The course timetable is Monday to Friday 08.00 – 12.00 and 13.30 – 17.00. Lunch is included in the course fee

Price list

The price is €470.

The price includes the materials used on the course, lunch throughout the course and the course handbook.

Distance learners have the option of staying overnight at one of these providers near the course location. The cost of the accommodation is borne by the students themselves.

To confirm your registration for the course, please pay EUR 100 to:

Restavratorstvo Stanko Vitez s.p.
Gaberje 4, 6222 Štanjel
TRR: SI56 0400 1004 8896 816 open at OTP BANKA
Purpose: payment for the furniture restoration course.

Please write in the subject line: payment for the furniture restoration course. The macaw will count towards the course fee, the balance will be paid at the course. In case of non-attendance at the course, the ara will not be refunded.

Next course

WHEN

The next course will take place on 19-23 October 2026.

WHERE

Gaberje 4, 6222 Štanjel

DURATION

5 days

PRICE

470€

Register now!

The course is scheduled to take place from 12-16 October 2026.

The course will be held if there are at least five registered students. For registration and further information, please contact me by e-mail stanko.vitez@siol.net or by phone 041 333 457.