DIY Gold Leaf Tray

Again, last spring I was busy working on a few HGTV DIY Tutorials for this Holiday Season. Nothing like working outside the given season to confuse a person, just a little. Kind of like right now, we are in the midst of the biggest holiday of the year and I'm currently focused on the Spring issue of House of Fifty! 

Regardless, here is an easy way to update a tray, great for the holidays or any time of year!

Materials Needed:

• lacquered black serving tray
• painters tape
• gold leaf sheets
• liquid adhesive

• gold leaf sealer
• gold leaf antiquing
• 2 foam brushes

Gather Supplies

Source black lacquered serving tray, collect needed supplies. Tip: Can't find a lacquered tray? Create the look of by paiting a wooden tray with glossy black spray paint.

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Apply Painters Tape

Line inside lower edges of tray with painters tape, running the tape edge flush to tray surface. Press firmly in place.

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Apply Adhesive

Brush tray surface with gold leaf liquid adhesive. Let the adhesive set for approximately 30 minutes, or until tacky.

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Apply Gold Leaf

Lay sheets of gold leaf over tray surface, overlapping slightly as necessary. Press into place with a foam brush. Tip: Don't worry about applying gold leaf perfectly. Folds and gaps in the leafing create surface interest.

Once the entire surface is covered with gold leaf, brush away loose particles with a foam brush.

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Apply Sealer

Brush on a layer of gold leaf sealer. Let dry 30 minutes.

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Apply Antiquing Finish

Brush on layer of gold leaf antiquing finish.

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Finish the Tray

Rub antiquing finish into cracks and ridges. Wipe away any excess with rag. Then, remove the tape. The tray is ready to be stocked with drinks, spirits or appetizers!

To see this and more DIY projects visit HGTV.com