Kolner Burnishing Clay and Kolner Instaclay offer a modern approach to
traditional water gilding, simplifying a process that has historically required
multiple labor-intensive steps. Developed in Germany, Kolner Burnishing Clay
combines the roles of glue size, gesso, and bole into a single, ready-to-use
product. This water-based system eliminates the need for heating glues or
applying numerous layers, making it a more efficient and accessible solution
for achieving a true burnished finish.
These versatile clays can be applied to a wide range of substrates,
including sealed wood, plastics, lacquered metals, and other nonporous surfaces
without the need for additional sealing. Porous materials such as raw wood,
plaster, or paper should be sealed prior to application to ensure proper
adhesion. Available in traditional bole colors—including red, yellow, white,
black, and blue—Kolner Burnishing Clay can also be mixed to create custom
tones, with the white clay tintable using Mixol® pigments for expanded color
possibilities.
Application is straightforward and adaptable to both studio and commercial
settings. The clay is applied in multiple thin coats, then sanded and polished
to achieve a smooth surface prior to gilding. Once prepared, the surface is
wetted with gilders’ liquor and gold leaf is applied in a manner similar to
traditional water gilding. The result is a beautifully burnishable surface
capable of achieving a high, mirror-like finish, while significantly reducing
preparation time and complexity compared to traditional methods.
