Step-by-Step Sanding for Wooden Picture Frames Before Gold Leaf Application

Applying gold leaf to picture frames creates a luxurious, timeless finish—but the secret to success is in the preparation. Sanding ensures a smooth, flawless base so the delicate gold leaf adheres properly and shines without imperfections.

Why Sand Picture Frames?

Frames often have rough edges, uneven finishes, or old coatings that interfere with gold leaf. Sanding removes these problems and creates a smooth surface for primer (gesso) and adhesive (size). Without sanding, gold leaf may wrinkle, peel, or look uneven.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sanding sponges or folded sheets for curves and grooves
• Detail sanding block for flat areas
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Protective gloves and mask
• High-quality silicon carbide sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Frames

• 120 grit: Removing old finishes and rough patches.
• 180 grit: Smoothing carved areas and refining details.
• 220 grit: Final prep for gesso primer.
• 320 grit: Extra smoothness for luxury finishes before gold leaf.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Picture Frames

1. Start with 120 grit. Use 120 grit (50-pack) to remove any peeling finish and smooth rough surfaces.
2. Smooth with 180 grit. Switch to 180 grit (25-pack) for refining carved areas and curves.
3. Refine with 220 grit. Sand with 220 grit (100-pack) to create a primer-ready surface.
4. Finish with 320 grit. Use 320 grit (25-pack) for ultra-smoothness before applying gesso.
5. Clean surface. Wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust before priming and gilding.

Special Cases

For antique frames, avoid aggressive sanding—preserve original carving by hand-sanding with light pressure. For ornate grooves, wrap sandpaper around a pencil for control.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain, even on curves, to avoid scratches.
• Apply multiple coats of gesso after sanding for the smoothest gilding base.
• Handle sanded frames with gloves to prevent oils from interfering with gold leaf adhesion.

Aftercare

• Seal gold leaf with a protective varnish after application.
• Dust finished frames with a microfiber cloth—avoid abrasives.
• Store unused sandpaper sheets flat and dry for future projects.

FAQs

• Can I sand after applying gesso? Yes—light sanding with 320 grit between coats gives the smoothest base for gilding.
• Do I need ultra-fine grits above 320? Not usually—gold leaf adheres best to slightly textured but smooth surfaces.

Watch & Learn

Proper sanding makes picture frames gilding-ready and ensures gold leaf shines beautifully. Explore our furniture sanding collection to get the perfect grits for gilding projects.