Gilding wax is a creamy, metallic wax used in crafting and decorative arts to add a rich, shimmering finish—typically to raised surfaces, edges, or textured details. It mimics the look of metal leaf or gold leaf, giving projects a luxurious or vintage touch.
Gilding Wax Features
- Comes in metallic colors (gold, silver, bronze, copper, pewter, etc.)
- Has a soft, buttery texture
- Can be applied with fingers, brushes, or cloth
- Dries quickly and buffs to a shine
- Works on many surfaces: wood, paper, metal, resin, canvas, embossed paper, and more
You can apply it to a number of surfaces including:
- Cardboard
- Leather
- Paper
- Plastic
- Wood
- Glass
- Ceramics
- Metal
There are a couple of different products that can create the gilded look to your crafts. Both gilding wax and gilding paste do the same thein in the end.
Gilding paste takes about one hour to dry. Gilding wax takes about 4 hours to dry. But in my opinion, the gilding wax gives a richer look. So today we are showing you a way to create your own gilding paste.
The best way to apply your wax is with your fingers rubbing the wax into the surface of your project. I suggest that you use plastic gloves to protect your hands and manicure.
You need just a tiny dab of the paste to apply to the surface of whatever you are gilding. Less is more. If you do get too much on the surface, Just buff some clear wax on it to get some of the product evenly spread.
DIY Gilding Wax Recipe
Gilding wax is so easy to make with just two products and a few tools.
Supplies
- Pearl powder, makeup powder, or fine mica powder
- Plastic cups
- Clear tacky glue
- Disposable mixing tool
- Measuring spoons
- Small containers to hold the wax with lids
- Put one tablespoon on the powder into the plastic cup.
- Add one- and one-half tablespoon of the glue to the cup.
- Stir the two products until they are mixed well. Take the time to get a good mix.
- Place the mix into containers with tight fitting lids.
Pick up a small amount with your fingertip, soft cloth, or brush.
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Lightly rub over raised areas of your project (like stenciled paste, die cuts, or embossed paper).
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Let dry for a few minutes (some brands dry almost instantly).
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Buff with a soft cloth to enhance the shine (optional).
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Seal with a varnish or wax if desired—though many are self-sealing.
Gilding Wax Tips
- Always let the surface of your gilding wax project completely dry and cure before using them. It could take up to 4 days.
- Do not use any sealers on gilding paste. If it fades, just add more to renew the surface.
- Try using a stencil to create a gilded design
Supplies You Need For This Project

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