Dux Slow Dry Oil Based Gilding Size

A slow setting oil-based leaf adhesive specially designed for gilding all types of metal leaf on a
wide variety of substrates. Tack will be reached in approximately 12 hours and remain tacky for
an additional 12 hours for gilding, depending on atmospheric conditions. Slow Set is ideal for
larger projects when extended time is required. If less tack time is required, Slow Set may be
mixed with our Quick Dry Size to achieve a wide variety of tack times. As an example: a 1:1
mixture will reach tack in about 3 hours and remain tacky for about the same time.
Directions for Use: Surface preparation is the key to obtaining a good-looking and long-lasting
leafing project. Surfaces must be smooth and free of any dust, oils, wax and fingerprints. If
applying size over a previously finished object, the surfaces must be cleaned and lightly
sanded, and a small area should be tested to ensure compatibility. Porous surfaces should be
filled with a sealer/primer that is compatible with the substrate. Dux primers are ideal for most
projects. Please contact our technical department for recommendations.
Application of Size: The size has been formulated to be used at the consistency provided by
the manufacturer. If the user feels that thinning is necessary, mineral spirits may be added in
small quantities. Size may be applied by brush, roller or spray. Best results are obtained with a
thin even film of around 2 mils of coating thickness. As with any paint or coating, the size should
be mixed prior to use. If brushing, any good quality natural bristle brush should be used, the
self-leveling properties of the size eliminate the need to over brush the coating. If rolling, use a
high quality short nap roller cover. When spraying, follow the equipment manufacturer
recommendations.
Application of Leaf: Important: Achieving a suitable tack is a critical step in the gilding process,
and a lot of leaf can be lost if proper tack is not attained. When the proper tack has been
reached, it should not leave fingerprints in the film. Then carefully lay down leaf over the size
and rub lightly with a piece of flannel or cotton. When using imitation gold or silver leaf, a
topcoat will prevent tarnishing and preserve the beauty of your project. Dux topcoats are
excellent choices. If gliding for the first time, experiment beforehand on a piece of scrap. There
are numerous web sites on the internet, including YouTube that can instruct you in the art of
gilding.
Miscellaneous
Coverage 200-250 square feet per gallon
Clean up wet size with mineral spirits. Use lacquer thinner on dried material.
Size can be used as a sealer and for top coating. This product has the characteristic
of yellowing upon aging, giving your project an “antique” look.
Size may be tinted with small amounts of oil based colors or universal colorants.
If size has lost it tack, it may be re-coated after it fully dries.
Top-coating should be done after size is fully dry (after 24 hours).
Ideal application conditions are 65-75° Fahrenheit and 40 to 60 perc