Welcoming the New Year | DIY GOLD LEAF PAINTING

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

It is the New Year! And I have decided to keep my resolutions short, simple and to a minimum: Be happy. Stay healthy. Laugh loads.

Or something like that. At least I'm pretty sure that's what it says in just about every lifestyle magazine once the old year comes to a close.

So while they may not be very original, I conclude from their repetitiveness and ubiquity that these must be the superior resolutions; the ultimate road to a fulfilled 2016; the crème de la crème of New Year's resolutions so to speak.

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

To be honest, these might just be the most unspecific, unmeaning resolutions to ever exist. But at least that means no one can check in on my progress all too well. Because frankly, I'm not sure I myself understand what it is I should or shouldn't be doing.

I am certain however that I won't be hearing "But you wanted to stop drinking", or "No really, stop" any time soon, so that's a plus!

No honestly, I am not a huge fan of making New Year's resolutions. A date in a calendar (right after we've gorged on holiday treats and received truckloads of pricey gifts mind you) doesn't typically have the power to compel you to work out more or to quit some nasty habit, let alone make you happy.

I believe it is a great time for reflection and for putting things into perspective. Making goals is always a good idea also. And sticking to them especially. And if the start of the year can give us that little extra push, I'm all for it.
But I don't think it's healthy to look back on the past year as a complete failure in ourselves and upon the next as that daunting undertaking, that time in which we can finally turn our lives around and become who or what we always wanted to be.

If you want to make a change, why not commit today, instead of waiting for January 1st?

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

So just before we put 2015 to rest, I received a letter from an overseas friend to which she added this lovely painting of a heart of gold.

It's called "Heart of Gold".

Duh.

I like to think it is a reminder of how precious I am. You know, like how they say "Stay golden!", "You have a heart of gold", "Conquer from within"!

Just some random associations...


The painting is actually inspired by some of Andy Warhol's early works..

Ha! I bet when I said Warhol you were thinking of Campbell's soups, Marilyn Monroe and a pop art color scheme!

Yeah. So was I.

But my friend educated me on the matter. And after some alone time with my good old friend Google, I must say I quite like these early works of Mr Warhol - so pretty!

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

WHAT YOU'LL NEED for gold leafing:

- imitation/faux gold leaf
- gilding size/adhesive
- 2 paint brushes
- clear acrylic or sealant
- fountain pen

Step 1: Draw the outline of your design with a fountain pen. Add a thin layer of adhesive in the shape of your design and let dry until tacky, about 15 minutes.

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

Step 2: Lightly press the gold leaf onto the glued surface and let dry. Either apply an entire sheet, or add smaller pieces of the gold leaf in layers with the help of a small, soft brush.

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

Step 3: Using a stiff paint brush, rub over the edges to remove any excess.

Step 4: Carefully apply a thin layer of sealant with a clean brush.

Step 5: Add pen and ink decor and embellishments around the gilded design.

DIY Warhol-Inspired Gold Leaf Painting | Motte's Blog

Don't forget to add a note to remind your friend to shine bright like a diamond!


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