It started with an idea listed in a chapter of business ideas in a how-to-start-a-business book-learn how to gild with gold leaf. I had worked several years in retail custom framing primarily working in production cutting mats, mounting and framing art. The high-end 22kt gold leaf frames piqued my fascination. I knew nothing of how gold leaf was put on nor had I ever seen a sheet of gold leaf, but the seed was planted. I wanted to work with this beautiful medium.
An opportunity serendipitously came my way after being laid off. One day after two months of job hunting, I opened the want ad section in the Chicago Tribune-an ad for a company looking for a gilder or the right candidate to willing to learn. I called the phone number and learned the company was world renowned harp manufacturer Lyon&Healy Harps. They hired me and I learned how to gild harps in genuine gold leaf. It changed my life. I eventually ventured into self-employment specializing in restoring antique gold harps. Then I began writing about gilding and teaching. The experience has been surprisingly gratifying. The gilding arts has been my passion for over 25 years. I feel proud and grateful working with this medium.