At Kamicarv, one of the most common questions we hear from customers is:
 "That shimmering golden surname in your artwork—how did you do it?"

Today, we’d like to share one of the most cherished — and most time-consuming — techniques in our craft: gold leaf gilding.

This technique doesn’t appear in every piece. Only when clients specifically request it, or when the design truly calls for gold leaf to elevate the overall aura, will we begin this “slowest of the slow” processes. Because to us, it’s not just decoration—it’s a commitment to detail.

We use authentic 24K gold leaf, not the hot-stamped metallic foil you often see in mass production. Our process is rooted in a traditional and meticulous water-based gilding technique.

It starts with adhesive application—and don’t underestimate this step. We use a specially formulated water-based adhesive (commonly known as "gilding glue"), which must be spread evenly and delicately. There’s no room for carelessness.

What’s the trickiest part? Air bubbles. Even the tiniest one can ruin the finish and cause the entire piece to be discarded. There’s no “good enough.” It’s either right—or it’s not.

Waiting is the invisible but essential step. The glue must reach the perfect “tacky” texture—slightly sticky, but not wet or dry. This can take many hours, even half a day, and depends completely on the artisan’s intuition.

When it’s ready, we gently lift the almost weightless gold leaf and lay it by hand.
 Even a single breath or twitch can ruin it.

Using a soft brush, we smooth the gold, letting it settle like light on water.
 At this point, it's no longer about strength—it’s about patience.

To us, gold is not about luxury. It’s a symbol of respect for craftsmanship and culture. In Chinese tradition, gold represents blessings, abundance, and fortune.

We don’t want our work to shout.
We want it to quietly shine—and whisper, "This was made with care."

So why spend so much time on this?
 Because we don’t want this art to disappear.

The world values speed. But we choose a slower, more intentional path— one that honors every detail and every meaning.

If you ever find yourself admiring the golden details in our art,and feel something soft, something warm—know that it carries our dedication and heart. Because we believe：Only work made with true care deserves to be truly treasured.

This is how we apply gold leaf to paper carvings. Not magic. Not miracles. Just time, touch, and attention—again and again.

Gold leaf is not just a finish. It’s the glow built from every step we refuse to rush.

We hope that glow doesn’t just shine—we hope it warms.



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