Metal Leaf
Metal Leaf is valued by artists and gilders as a versatile and economical alternative to precious metal leaf, offering a wide range of finishes for decorative and interior applications. The Metal Leaf group includes Composition Gold, Aluminum, Copper, and Variegated leaf, each providing distinct color qualities while maintaining ease of use across a variety of surfaces.
Metal leaf is typically made from metal alloys, most commonly copper and zinc in the case of composition gold, which gives it its characteristic color and workability. While these materials provide a similar visual effect to genuine metals, they will naturally oxidize and tarnish over time when exposed to air and environmental conditions.
Sepp Leaf Products offers metal leaf in standard packs designed for efficiency and coverage. Metal leaf is sold in units called “packs,” with each pack containing 500 leaves measuring 5-1/2 inches × 5-1/2 inches. A full pack covers approximately 100 square feet without waste or overlap. Each pack is divided into 20 books, with each book containing 25 leaves separated by thin tissue paper for ease of handling and application.
Because of its composition, metal leaf is intended for interior use only. The copper content in most metal leaf will tarnish over time, making it essential to apply a protective topcoat after gilding to preserve the desired finish. Aluminum leaf is the exception, as it will not tarnish in the same way, though it may darken slightly without a sealer.
Proper handling is essential when working with metal leaf. It is recommended to wear cotton gilding gloves to prevent fingerprints, oils, or residues from transferring to the leaf, as these can cause discoloration—particularly once a sealer is applied.
Metal Leaf is ideal for:
• Interior decorative finishes
• Furniture and cabinetry
• Frames and moldings
• Signage and display work
• Theatrical and event design
• Large-scale decorative projects
The amount of leaf required for a project will vary depending on the surface and level of detail. Flat surfaces allow for efficient coverage with minimal waste, while ornate or highly textured surfaces with deep crevices will require additional leaf and may increase material usage depending on the complexity of the work and the gilder’s technique.
Like all leaf products, metal leaf should be stored in a dry, stable environment to maintain its quality and usability.
When properly handled and sealed, Metal Leaf provides a cost-effective and visually striking finish, offering the look of precious metal with practical flexibility for a wide range of interior applications.
Leaf Coverage (approximate) Chart: | |||
Material | Size | Quantity | Coverage |
| Gold Leaf - Pack | 3-3/8 inch x 3-3/8 inch (85 mm x 85 mm) | 500 Leaves | 39.5 sq. ft. (3.66 m^2) |
| Gold Leaf - Book | 3-3/8 inch x 3-3/8 inch (85 mm x 85 mm) | 25 Leaves | 1.98 sq. ft. (0.17 m^2) |
| Metal Leaf - Pack | 5-1/2 inch x 5-1/2 inch (139 mm x 139 mm) | 500 Leaves | 105 sq. ft. (9.75 m^2) |
| Metal Leaf - Book | 5-1/2 inch x 5-1/2 inch (139 mm x 139 mm) | 25 Leaves | 5.25 sq. ft. (0.48 m^2) |
| Japanese Leaf | 4-5/16 inch x 4-5/16 inch (109 mm x 109 mm) | 500 Leaves | 64.6 sq. ft. (6 m^2) |
| Manetti - Italian Gold Roll | 4-1/8 inch x 67 ft. (104 mm x 20.4 m) | Master Roll | 22.25 sq. ft. (2.06 m^2) |
| Manetti - Italian Palladium Roll | 3 inch x 67 ft. (76 mm x 20.4 m) | Master Roll | 18.8 sq. ft. (1.74 m^2) |
| Crocodile - German Gold Roll | 4-1/8 inch x 69 ft. (104 mm x 21 m) | Master Roll | 23.5 sq. ft. (2.18 m^2) |
| Italian Silver Master Roll | 5-1/2 inch x 82 ft. (139 mm x 24.9 m^2) | Master Roll | 37.5 sq. ft. (3.48 m^2) |
| Metal Leaf Roll - 50 meter | 6-1/4 inch x 164 ft. (158 mm x 49.9 m^2) | Master Roll | 82 sq. ft. (7.61 m^2) |
| Metal Leaf Roll - 75 meter | 6-1/4 inch x 246 ft. (158 mm x 75 m) | Master Roll | 123 sq. ft. (11.4 m^2) |
| Schlagmetal Leaf - Box | 6-1/4 inch x 6-1/4 inch. (158 mm x 158 mm) | 10,000 Leaves | 2,720 sq. ft. (252.69 m^2) |
