The Society of Gilders is an international non-profit association dedicated to preserving, promoting, and advancing the traditional arts of gilding. Through education, community workshops, and regional conferences, the organization connects professional artisans, architectural conservators, and apprentices. As a result, it ensures that historic gold leaf techniques and decorative surface finishes continue to thrive across modern architectural and fine art projects.
History, Mission, and Education
First established in the 1980s, the organization emerged to unite guilders who previously worked in isolated studios. Today, the organization preserves time-tested practices while fostering new talent. Therefore, members gain access to masterclasses, technical publications, and an active network of craftspeople across multiple disciplines:
- Water Gilding: Preserving traditional gesso, clay bole preparation, and hand agate burnishing on fine frames and carved furniture.
- Architectural Oil Gilding: Applying exterior 23-karat gold leaf to historic domes, building facades, and public monuments.
- Glass Gilding (Verre Églomisé): Mastering reverse glass leafing, mirrored water gilding, and fine hand-etched linework for decorative panels and commercial transoms.
- Conservation and Restoration: Training artisans to assess, clean, and restore historic gilded artifacts without compromising the original substrate.
Leadership and Studio Heritage
The strength of the organization relies directly on the active involvement of its master craftsmen. In particular, our own Brendon Brandon served as a former president of the organization. During his tenure and lifelong dedication to the craft, he helped advance educational standards, support international gilding conferences, and mentor rising craftspeople in traditional surface leafing and glass gilding methods.
Explore the Guild and Learn More
Whether you are seeking a certified gilder for an architectural restoration or looking to learn traditional gold leaf techniques, visit the official guild portal:
- Society of Gilders Official Website – Learn about membership, upcoming gilding courses, conferences, and technical resources.