Genuine Copper Leaf
Nazionale Brand — Premium Italian-made copper leaf, supplied in a book of 25 individually interleaved sheets.
Each leaf measures 5.5" × 5.5", providing approximately 5 square feet of coverage per book. Renowned for its consistent thickness, clean edges, and rich natural copper tone, Nazionale copper leaf offers exceptional control during application and reliable adhesion when used with both oil and water-based sizes. Ideal for fine furniture, frames, architectural details, restoration work, and decorative gilding projects where surface quality and finish integrity matter.
Highest Quality.
Copper Leaf Rolls
Ribbon Leaf
Copper Leaf Kits
Water-based and oil-based Gilding Kits
Copper Mica Powder
Non-toxic Copper Mica Powder
Copper Schaibin
Large irregular pieces of Copper Leaf
Copper Tamise
Small irregular pieces of Copper Leaf
Metal Leaf Color Chart
Imitation Gold Leaf Color Chart
Choose Your Copper Leaf Format
Copper Leaf Packs
Packs are ideal for bigger projects—walls, ceilings, furniture sets, signage, or production work. Expect efficient coverage with consistent leaf quality and easy handling.
- Best for: large surfaces and repeatable results
- Pairs well with: oil size for durability, water size for interior detail work
- Tip: plan your sealer choice before you start
Copper Leaf Books
Books are perfect for smaller jobs, sample boards, repairs, detail work, and testing sealers/patina. Choose loose leaf for traditional handling or patent leaf for easier placement.
- Best for: frames, objects, spot repairs, testing
- Loose vs. Patent: loose = traditional; patent = more beginner-friendly
- Tip: keep books flat and away from drafts
Copper Leaf Ribbon Rolls
Ribbon leaf (rolls) is copper leaf laid onto transfer tissue—fast, clean, and great for long runs and consistent striping. Ideal for moldings, lines, edges, and repeating patterns.
- Best for: borders, trim, signage edges, long straight runs
- Benefit: less waste and faster application
- Tip: burnish lightly after release for a tighter look
How Copper Leaf Works
1) Prep & Prime
Smooth, sealed surfaces leaf best. Sand, dust, and prime so your size lays evenly and your leaf reads clean and bright.
For porous surfaces (raw wood, plaster, etc.), a proper primer/sealer prevents “sink-in” and blotchy tack.
Surface prep basics »2) Apply Size (Adhesive)
Copper leaf is typically applied over water-based size (great for interior/decorative work) or oil-based size (durable, classic, excellent for signage and higher-wear surfaces).
- Water size: faster tack, great control for interior finishes
- Oil size: longer open time, tough bond, excellent for exterior/handling
3) Lay Leaf, Burnish, Clean Up
Float the leaf onto tack, pat down, then gently brush away skewings once set. Use a soft mop brush for cleanup and a gilder’s tip for loose leaf handling.
- Loose leaf: fastest coverage on open areas; classic method
- Patent leaf: easier placement; great for learning and detail work
- Ribbon: efficient on lines and repeated patterns
4) Seal to Protect the Finish
Copper naturally oxidizes and will darken/tarnish without protection. If you want to “freeze” the bright copper look, apply a compatible clear sealer after the leaf is fully set and cleaned.
Prefer an aged look? You can allow controlled oxidation or patina effects—then seal once you love the tone.
Shop SealersTools & Essentials
For Handling & Placement
- Gilder’s Tip Brush (loose leaf pickup)
- Soft Mop Brush (skewings cleanup)
- Gilding pad (optional) for cutting and staging
For Adhesion
- Water-based sizes (interiors & decorative work)
- Oil sizes (durable bond and classic finish)
- Quality brushes/rollers for smooth, even size film
For Protection
- Clear sealers to lock in color
- Topcoats for higher wear areas
- Test board recommended (especially for patina + sealer combos)
FAQ
Will copper leaf tarnish?
Yes—copper is a reactive metal. If you want to keep the bright copper look, seal it after the leaf is set and cleaned. If you like a naturally aged tone, allow controlled oxidation, then seal.
Loose vs. patent leaf—what’s the difference?
Loose leaf is traditional: free leaf sheets handled with a tip brush. Patent leaf is pressed onto transfer tissue, making placement easier and more controlled.
What size should I use?
For interior decorative finishes, water-based size can be ideal. For durability, signage, and higher-wear surfaces, oil size is a classic choice. The best option depends on your surface, timeline, and environment.
Can I use copper leaf outdoors?
You can, but outdoor exposure is demanding. Use a durable adhesive system and a proven exterior-grade sealer, and always test your full stack (primer + size + leaf + sealer) on a sample.