Super GILD FAQs

Super GILD and GILD Originals are both metallic paints, but they are designed for slightly different uses.

Super GILD contains a higher pigment load and proprietary resin system that creates a brighter, more reflective gilded appearance similar to traditional gilding. It is also more durable and suitable for both interior and exterior use on a wide range of surfaces.

GILD Originals offers a classic metallic enamel-like finish with refined colour and depth. It is ideal for interior decorative work, furniture detailing and restoration projects where a softer, heritage metallic effect is desired.

Both ranges are water-based and designed to deliver professional metallic finishes without the complexity of traditional gilding.

Gold leaf needs size, skill and a steady hand, and it tears while you work. Super GILD gives you a luminous, gilded finish brushed straight from the jar, with no specialist tools or adhesives.

It is also the more robust of the two GILD ranges: suitable outdoors and on surfaces that get handled regularly. For softer, more traditional character on interior detail, GILD Originals is the gentler option.

Yes. Super GILD offers near full coverage in one coat on many surfaces, thanks to its exceptionally high pigment load. It is also a powerful alternative to gold leaf, delivering a luminous, leaf-like metallic finish with far greater ease and control.

Yes. As with any metallic finish, we recommend testing Super GILD on a small sample or inconspicuous area before beginning your full project. This allows you to check colour tone, surface preparation and application technique under your lighting conditions.

Testing also helps you determine whether one or two coats will achieve the effect you want and ensures the finish behaves exactly as expected on your chosen surface.

Super GILD adheres beautifully to most porous and non-porous surfaces, including furniture, wood, metal, mouldings, decorative objects, natural materials, resin details and light-use fabrics such as decorative cushions or wall hangings. Super GILD can be used both indoors and outdoors. For exterior or high-contact surfaces, we recommend applying Coating Extras - Clear Coat Gloss for added durability and protection.

Yes. Super GILD performs beautifully on decorative glass such as vases, frames, ornaments and display pieces, creating a refined, reflective metallic finish. For best adhesion, ensure the glass is thoroughly cleaned and degreased.

As Super GILD is a decorative, flexible coating, it is best suited to glass applications where moisture cannot get beneath the paint surface. Make sure all sides of your project are sealed, this will ensure the finish remains beautifully intact over time.

Yes. Clean the metal thoroughly and ensure any rust is treated with a rust inhibitor where necessary, then apply Super GILD as directed.

Yes. Ensure the existing paint is water-based, fully dry, clean and sound. Lightly sand glossy finishes and use a suitable primer if adhesion is a concern or when painting over any existing solvent-based paints.

Not always. For many porous or previously painted matte surfaces, careful cleaning may be enough. For glossy, sealed or difficult surfaces, light sanding and primer are recommended for best results.

Super GILD can be used on light-use fabrics such as decorative cushions, wall hangings and textile art, creating a flexible, metallic finish.

As with any painted fabric surface, it is best suited to items that are not subject to frequent washing or heavy wear. Always test on a sample first to ensure the desired finish and flexibility.

One coat of Super GILD often provides strong coverage thanks to its exceptionally high metallic pigment load. However, two thin coats will create the most refined, even and luminous metallic finish.

Allow the first coat to dry fully before applying the second. Thin, even layers will always produce a smoother, more reflective result than one heavy coat.

Use a high-quality synthetic brush or fine roller and apply in thin, even coats, allowing adequate drying time between coats. Two thin coats will give a smoother result than one heavy coat.

Yes. All Guild Lane water-based paints (excluding Chrome) are fully intermixable with our GILD Originals and Jubilee colours. This allows you to create completely bespoke metallic finishes across ranges. See a quick example here.

Super GILD can be thinned with 5–10% clean water only to adjust flow, but avoid other mediums, which may interfere with the metallic foils and lustre. Always test before committing to a full piece.

Super GILD creates a smooth, highly reflective metallic finish with a luminous, gilded appearance.

When applied in thin, even coats, Super GILD self-levels to create a smooth, refined metallic finish. Using a high-quality synthetic brush or fine roller will help achieve the best result.

Yes. Once dry, you can gently sand edges to reveal underlying colours or apply glazes and waxes to create an aged, patinated effect. Always test techniques on a sample piece first.

Super GILD Gold, Platinum and Burnt Copper blend seamlessly to create an endless range of custom metallic shades. Begin with small amounts, mix thoroughly and record your ratios for consistency. Always test your blend before applying to your final piece.

No. When mixed within recommended ratios, Super GILD retains its durability, fade resistance, self-levelling properties and fast-drying time. Very thick layers or dilution may slightly alter opacity or drying speed, so testing is always recommended.

Super GILD can be sealed with a compatible clear coat where additional protection is required, particularly on exterior or high-contact surfaces. Always test first to ensure the desired finish is maintained.

Super GILD is typically touch dry within around 30 minutes and ready for a second coat after approximately one hour, depending on temperature and surface conditions.

Super GILD reaches full cure and maximum durability after approximately 21 days. Light use after drying is fine once dry, but avoid heavy handling until fully cured.

No. When fully cured and applied correctly, Super GILD is designed to remain vibrant and resist tarnishing under normal conditions.

Yes. Super GILD is suitable for both interior and exterior use when applied correctly to a sound, prepared surface. For exposed areas or surfaces that receive frequent handling, an additional clear coat may be used for extra protection.

Super GILD is highly durable once fully cured. For surfaces that receive frequent handling, such as tabletops, handles or outdoor features, we recommend applying a clear protective topcoat for added durability.

Once fully cured, Super GILD Burnt Copper is designed to remain vibrant and resist tarnishing under normal conditions. Always ensure correct preparation and application for exterior projects.

No. When applied correctly in thin, even layers, Super GILD forms a flexible, durable finish that resists cracking and flaking under normal use. As with any coating, adhesion depends on correct surface preparation and application.

Coverage varies depending on surface texture and absorbency. As a guide, 30 ml covers up to 1 square metre, 60 ml covers up to 2 square metres, 125 ml covers up to 4.5 square metres and 250 ml covers up to 9 square metres.

Clean brushes and tools promptly with warm water and mild soap. Allow them to dry thoroughly before storing.

Yes. Super GILD is water-based with low odour and low VOC, making it perfect to use indoors.

Store Super GILD in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly sealed. Avoid extreme temperatures or prolonged direct sunlight. Stir thoroughly before reuse to ensure the metallic pigments are evenly distributed.