As editor of The Gilder's Tip, the International Journal of the Society of Gilders, I get to correspond with some pretty interesting people in the Gilding field. The issue we're working on now doesn't go out to members until January, 2008 - but time does fly. In it will be a wonderful article by a gilder in Chicago who specializes in the water gilding of harps and a paper by Jerry Tresser on a qualitative study of Cennini concerning slaked plaster.

The journal currently only goes to members so if you're interested, better sign up as a member with the SOG. Our 20th year anniversary is next year so there will be a special Summer '08 edition, just before our next gilding event at the Smithsonian next Fall! ~

Meanwhile, I am going to re-introduce my special two-day traditional water gilding class to be held at my new studio location in Green Lake at the northeast end of Seattle. It's an intensive two days, exploring all 12 steps of the water gilding process for frames, furniture, and decorative elements. I'd also like to incorporate an after class trip to the new Seattle Art Museum to view the Italian gilded frame collection. So, keep your eye on the schedule.

Today's gilding tip: always think through your projects slowly and carefully before applying materials and quoting prices. It's a complicated craft so you want to make sure you give yourself the best chance for success by taking your time and considering all the angles, reviewing samples, getting as much info up front as possible. I've gilded many different objects over the last twenty some-odd years - from glass doors and metal domes to 17th c sconces and early American frames. Each object has a story to tell and brings it's own challenges. Take your time when time allows.

~Charles