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Best Gold Paint for Wood: Top Picks for a Luxurious Finish

Gold paint adds a touch of elegance and glamour to any wooden surface. Whether you’re looking to update old furniture or add some shine to a new project, choosing the right gold paint can make all the difference. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best for your specific needs. This article will provide an overview of the best gold paint for wood, taking into consideration factors such as color, finish, durability, and ease of use.

When it comes to choosing a gold paint for wood, color is one of the most important factors to consider. Some gold paints have a warm, yellow undertone, while others have a cooler, more silvery tone. The finish of the paint is also important, as some gold paints have a matte or satin finish, while others have a high-gloss or metallic shine. Additionally, the durability of the paint is crucial, especially if the painted surface will be exposed to wear and tear or outdoor elements.

Overall, finding the best gold paint for wood requires careful consideration of various factors. By taking into account the color, finish, durability, and ease of use, you can choose a gold paint that will not only add a touch of glamour to your wooden surfaces but also stand the test of time.

Best gold paint for wood

Understanding Gold Paint for Wood

Gold paint is a popular choice for adding a touch of luxury and elegance to wooden furniture, trim, and other decorative woodwork. However, not all gold paints are created equal, and it’s important to understand the different types of gold paint available and their unique properties.

When it comes to gold paint for wood, there are generally two main categories: metallic and non-metallic. Metallic gold paint contains actual metallic particles that reflect light and create a shiny, reflective finish. Non-metallic gold paint, on the other hand, is created using pigments and does not contain any actual metal particles.

You can see more about the best metallic paints for furniture in this post. I included some of my past metallic paint projects with real life reviews.

metallic paint projects

Both metallic and non-metallic gold paints come in a range of shades and tones, from bright and bold to subtle and muted. It’s important to choose a shade that complements the wood and the overall design aesthetic.

When selecting a gold paint for wood, it’s also important to consider the type of paint and the application method. Some gold paints are designed specifically for use on wood, while others may be more versatile and suitable for use on a variety of surfaces.

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Top Gold Paint Brands

When it comes to painting wood with a gold finish, choosing the right paint brand is crucial. Here are some of the top gold paint brands that are known for their quality and durability:

1. Rust-Oleum

Rust-Oleum is a popular brand that offers a wide range of gold paint colors and finishes. Their metallic gold spray paint is a favorite among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. It provides a smooth, shiny finish that is perfect for accent pieces and furniture.

I used Rust-Oleum Pure Gold metallic spray paint for a chair makeover and it turned out beautifully! You can see below where I used it to cover the base of this vintage chair for a modern vintage look! Even though I used it on metal, this spray paint will stick to just about anything including wood.

DIY Modern Vintage Style Chair Makeover with Gold Spray Paint

2. DecoArt

DecoArt is another well-known brand that offers a variety of gold paint options. Their Dazzling Metallics line is a favorite among artists and crafters for its rich, vibrant colors and easy application. The DecoArt metallic gold paint is perfect for adding a touch of glamour to any project.

You can see where I used this product to paint a black wooden mirror gold. I still love the shimmery gold mirror!

mirror painted with Deco Art Gold shimmery paint

3. Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart’s gold paint line is a favorite among interior designers and DIYers alike. The brand offers a range of gold hues, from warm and inviting to cool and sophisticated. Their gold paint is known for its easy application and long-lasting finish.

Martha Stewart Crafts makes a few different types of gold paint. She has a Gold Liquid Gilding product that gets really good reviews on Amazon (it’s not the cheapest). It’s also a perfect product to paint on wood.

She also has a Metallic Paint and Primer spray paint product that gets decent reviews too.

4. Krylon

Krylon is a trusted brand that offers a variety of gold spray paint options. Their metallic gold spray paint is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any project. It dries quickly and provides a smooth, even finish that is perfect for furniture, home decor, and more.

I used Krylon’s Gold Leaf spray paint when I made a DIY world map art on a large piece of wood. It turned out beautifully!

DIY world map art with Krylon Gold Leaf spray paint
world map art on wood

If you are looking for a small accent of gold on wood, Krylon also makes a great Gold Leaf Pen with a few different gold hues to choose from.

5. FolkArt

FolkArt is a popular brand among crafters and artists for its high-quality paints and finishes. Their metallic gold paint is perfect for adding a touch of shimmer to any project. It is water-based, non-toxic, and easy to clean up, making it a great choice for DIY projects with kids.

6. Rub N’ Buff

Of course I can’t talk about gold paint without mentioning Rub N’ Buff gold wax. That being said, Rub N’ Buff isn’t a paint product (it’s wax), but I wanted to include it in this roundup of the best gold paint products anyways. If you want to know more about this product I’ve got a full blog post on how to apply Rub N’ Buff.

Rub N' Buff antique gold

As far as a variety of gold tones, Rub N’ Buff probably has the most! They probably have 8 different shades of gold! If you are looking for a specific gold hue, check out Rub N’ Buff.

If you are wondering if you can apply it to wood, yes you can! I applied gold Rub N’ Buff to wooden dowels for a Mid Century Modern Media Console makeover. I love how bright the gold looks and how it gave this console a “pop” of color.

mid century modern media console makeover

Application Techniques for Gold Paint on Wood

Preparation

Before applying gold paint to wood, it is important to ensure that the surface is clean and free from any dirt, dust, or grease. The following steps can be taken to prepare the wood surface for painting:

  • Sand the wood surface with a fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface.
  • Wipe the surface with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
  • Apply a primer to the surface to ensure that the gold paint adheres properly. Check the manufacturer directions because not all gold paint product require a primer product first.

Applying

When applying gold paint to wood, it is important to use the right technique to achieve the desired finish. The following steps can be taken to apply gold paint:

  • Stir the gold paint thoroughly before use to ensure that the color is consistent.
  • Use a brush or roller to apply the gold paint to the wood surface. I find that a foam brush is best when applying most gold paints.
  • Apply the first coat of paint in a thin, even layer and allow it to dry completely before applying a second coat.
  • Apply additional coats of paint as necessary to achieve the desired finish.

If you are using a spray paint product, follow the manufacturers directions on how to use it.

Finishing

Once the gold paint has been applied to the wood surface, it is important to finish the surface properly to protect the paint and ensure that it lasts for a long time. The following steps can be taken to finish the gold-painted wood surface:

  • Allow the paint to dry completely before applying any finishing products.
  • Apply a clear topcoat to the surface to protect the gold paint from scratches and other damage.
  • Allow the topcoat to dry completely before using the wood surface.

Again, not all gold paint products require a top coat so make sure to check the manufacturers directions.

Maintenance of Gold Painted Wood

Once you have painted your wooden furniture with gold paint, it is important to maintain it properly to ensure it continues to look its best. Here are some tips to help you care for your gold painted wood:

Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential to keep your gold painted wood looking its best. You can use a soft cloth or a feather duster to remove any dust or dirt that may have accumulated on the surface. If you need to remove any stubborn stains, you can use a mild soap and water solution.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your gold painted wood as they may damage the paint. Instead, use a mild cleaner or soap and water solution to keep your furniture looking its best.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Direct sunlight can cause the gold paint to fade over time. If possible, avoid placing your gold painted wood in direct sunlight. If this is not possible, you can use curtains or blinds to block out the sun’s rays.

Avoid Scratches

Scratches can easily damage the gold paint on your wooden furniture. To avoid scratches, use coasters, placemats, and tablecloths to protect your furniture from scratches and other damage.

Touch Up

If you notice any areas where the gold paint has chipped or faded, you can touch it up with a small brush and some gold paint. Be sure to let the touch-up paint dry completely before using the furniture again.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best gold paint for wood can be a little overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By considering the factors mentioned above, such as paint type, finish, and application method, you can make an informed decision that will give your project the perfect touch of elegance and sophistication.

When it comes to the best gold paint for wood, there are several options that stand out. Metallic gold paints, such as the Rust-Oleum Universal All Surface Metallic Gold Spray Paint, provide a shiny, reflective finish that is perfect for adding a touch of glamour to any project. The spray paint products are great for larger projects when you need to cover a lot of surface area.

If you’re looking for a more subtle gold finish, the Martha Stewart Crafts Multi-Surface Metallic Acrylic Craft Paint in Gold are excellent choices. These paints provide a more muted, sophisticated look that is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to furniture, cabinets, or other wood surfaces.

Ultimately, the best gold paint for wood will depend on your personal preferences and the specific project you’re working on. By considering the factors above and experimenting with different paints, you’re sure to find the perfect gold paint for your needs.

As always, feel free to reach out with any questions.

Lindsey**