aluminum leaf onto gold leaf

[camprosie]

Hello! 
    This is another question that has come into the SOG via phone and e-mail.   I would appreciate help in answering the question. 
Thanks for helping me get in answer for this question.
Rosemary Campbell
Executive Secretary
sogexsec@gmail.com




I am working on an 18" X 18" flat surface (paper) with imitation leaf 5" X 5" sheets and attempting to apply aluminum leaf in a precise intricate pattern (like 'freckles') on top of a surface (background) previously prepared with gold leaf. The pattern has appropriate adhesive on it, however the aluminum (or copper) will not cleanly and completely release in the non-adhesive areas.
 
I need to apply the pattern with sizing then cover the entire 18" X 18" area with 5" X 5" sheets of leaf then brush away the non-ashered leaf. To my unpleasant surprise it does not remove accurately. It appears to be resistant to separating. Resulting in an inaccurate pattern.
 
I have conducted multiple tests and Sepp Leaf has no answer.
 
I would appreciate any advice. I am not a professional guilder.
 

[fieldartstudio]

A little trick, brush a little talc or whitting over the surface (lightly, but completely) before you apply the spots of sizing onto the surface.  The powder will act like ball bearings and keep the sheets of leaf from sticking where they are not wanted.