You can transform everyday objects into treasured heirlooms simply by guilding.

The process known as gilding simply means the application of gold or silver leaf to a surface that has been properly prepared with an adhesive known as 'gold size'.

1. Lightly sand the surface of the items to be guilded using 220 grit sandpaper to remove any blemishes - unless of course you want to keep the piece in its original condition.

2. Apply your acrylic base coat, allowing sufficient drying time. Ochre, red and grey are the best colour enhancing undertones.

3. Apply adhesive 'size'. Size is the adhesive used to affix the leaf to a surface. There are different kinds of size adhesive dependant on the finished look you desire. Speak to your craft retailer about the project you will be doing and they will recommend the correct product.

4. It is very important to test the 'tack'. As your 'size' dries it naturally goes from a wet to a dry state. The proper time to apply your leaf is when the 'size' is not wet but 'tacky', just before it dries completely.

5. To apply the gold - or other - leaf to the surface, carefully remove a single sheet of gold leaf transfer paper and gently apply to your surface. Rub over the back of the paper with a soft brush. Gently remove the backing paper to leave the leaf adhered to the surface.