Description
It’s unlikely that you’ll find another material in Kenya that can rival gold frames in terms of versatility. Gold-colored picture frames have a centuries-old history. Renaissance artists first used them. As the visual arts developed, framing techniques improved. They emphasize artistic value. To ensure a painting becomes an integral part of your interior, choose a frame considering:
- era, style of painting;
- canvas size;
- shades prevailing on the canvas;
- design and color scheme of the room;
- For a classic interior, a gold-colored frame will be a striking addition. An antique painting in a gold frame with stucco decoration and intricate ornamentation remains timeless and always looks luxurious—gilded woodwork, whether flat or dimensional, remains popular for many years.
- A gilded surface with a light patina is the perfect choice for decorating a room in the Art Nouveau style. A gold frame with a thin border is perfect for paintings by contemporary masters. It will draw attention to the work itself, its theme, and its color scheme.
- But paintings aren’t the only items that need decorative framing. A beautiful frame will be a unique addition to any embroidery, poster, drawing, or photograph. Wood is the traditional material for framing. Compared to wooden frames, plastic ones are less expensive.
Depending on the type of canvas, drawing, or photo, you can choose any size, shape, or color in our Nairobi West store:
Frames in silver and gold colors look attractive, especially for framing color photographs.
Gold Frames Gilding Methods in Kenya
Gilding gold frames requires a high degree of skill. There are several methods for applying gold. Some of the most commonly used materials in Kenya include:
Gold plating
It has a bright shine. A painting in which a gold-colored frame is decorated using a combination technique looks especially striking. This involves matte gilding. The main background and glossy gilded ornamentation. The striking combination of the golden highlights of the frame and the reflections of light on the canvas gives it a special expressiveness.
Gold leaf
A metal alloy (zinc, copper). In appearance, it differs little from gold plating. Its use began in the second half of the 19th century. Gold leaf typically serves the same function as matte gilding. The entire frame or edges are gilded with gold leaf. The color is more saturated than with bronze powder, which is sometimes used for this application.
Choosing gold picture frames requires artistic flair and a deep understanding of painting. At our Nairobi West framing store, our highly qualified consultants will help you select and purchase gold frames that will perfectly frame any paintings or mirrors. We have experience working with contemporary works of art and museum pieces.
The main stages of gilding gold frames
First, consider this important point. Choose a dust-free, draft-free room to work in. It’s also advisable to breathe through your nose and avoid sneezing or coughing. This is a delicate and sensitive material. But seriously, find a corner where you can work with the gold leaf.
Step one
Prepare the surface of the item. Surfaces must be cleaned of any dirt where needed. If you’re working with wood, it needs to be primed to ensure a smooth surface for gilding. Items made of plastic, glass, or metal simply need to be cleaned and degreased.
Stage two
Apply the glue. There are two types of gilding: oil and resin. However, we recommend starting with the resin type. The instructions for the glue will tell you how long to let it set. If you prefer, you can use special glue sticks; they are sometimes more convenient.
Step three
The most important and most interesting step is to begin applying the leaf. The desired shape can be cut from a sheet of leaf on a piece of suede with a regular kitchen knife. It’s best if the piece is flexible and wide. To transfer the leaf to the surface, use a lampensel. This is a special brush that must first be electrified and then drawn over leather treated with Vaseline cream. Very carefully, smooth the leaf with a sable brush. Tap with a cotton swab or the bristles of the brush as you go. Rest until everything dries. If you’ve decided to cover metal with leaf, press it down and polish it with a cotton swab. Be sure to overlap the leaf.
Step four
A characteristic feature of this material is that it doesn’t adhere perfectly or evenly to the surface. Gaps are initially filled with remaining pieces of gold leaf. After the surface has dried (this can take anywhere from 3 to 12 hours), it is carefully polished with something like pumice. Start polishing from a corner and continue until a uniform effect is achieved. Try to avoid leaving any seams. Finally, coat everything with a protective varnish.
With a little practice and skill development, you might just discover the master gilder within.
Golden frames for paintings and decor
Gold frame molding is an exquisite interior design solution that adds sophistication and luxury. Art galleries, art studios, restaurants, shops, and private interiors use gold frame molding to create accents and enhance the elegance of the space. Our collection includes moldings made of wood, plastic, and aluminum, each bringing a unique character to the design.
Application of gold baguette
The golden baguette is universal and suitable for:
- Paintings, panels, and graphic works, emphasizing their expressiveness.
- Mirrors add sophistication and nobility to them.
- Photo frames give photographs a festive look.
- Icons, creating a harmonious and respectful frame.
- Wall-mounted monitors and televisions, integrating modern technology into classic style.
- Decorate wall shelves, cornices, and walls, adding sophisticated accents.
Golden moldings fit harmoniously not only into classic interiors but also into contemporary styles. They soften the severity of high-tech, enrich Provence, add a touch of flair to modernism, highlight the elegance of avant-garde, and complement the ruggedness of lofts.
Types of gold baguette in Kenya
Wood Moulding
A classic choice with a warm texture and rich appearance, ideal for traditional and luxury interiors.
Plastic baguette
Lightweight, affordable, and resistant to external influences, it retains the brightness of the golden hue for many years.
Aluminum baguette
A modern solution with a laconic design, suitable for minimalist and industrial spaces.
How to choose a gold frame?
When choosing a baguette, consider the following characteristics:
Width and height
Determine the visual massiveness of the frame.
Relief pattern and style
From classic ornaments to modern smooth profiles.
Baguette profile
Affects the perception of depth and form.
Quarter width and depth
Important for the proper fixing of a picture or a mirror.
Gold tone
From warm antique to cool metallic, depending on the interior.
To create a unique frame, you can use a combination of double moldings. Our specialists will help you choose the optimal combination of materials and styles, taking into account the specific features of your artwork and the design of your space.