Gilder

The craftsman creates wooden frames for paintings and mirrors, frames pictures and objects, gilds them or colors them by applying different materials (gold or silver leaf, dyes, varnish, etc.) . In order to be able to gild its material, most often wood, it is necessary to clean, glue, sometimes apply the coarse white, sanded once dry, coat with glue then deposit the gold leaf. The burnishing carried out with agate makes it possible to reveal all the brilliance of gold or silver.

The craftsman advises their clients on the styles and materials to use for framing or restoration work.

The gilder can be a craftsman, work in a workshop as an employee or freelance. Its field of intervention is quite vast (setting, furniture, decor and woodwork). Its clientele consists mainly of private collectors, antique dealers, museums, some public commissions for Historic Monuments or the National Furniture. The gilder is required to work with other trades: cabinetmakers, sculptors, upholsterers, antique dealers. Gilding also applies to new techniques. It can be associated with glass, paper, leather, fabrics, plastic.

Become a gilder

Initial professional training as a CFC Gilder-framer/Doreuse-framer is acquired through an apprenticeship. Duration 4 years. Course location in Bern. Improvements are possible.

You will find all the information on orientation.ch .