Xpress It Gold size is Water based, Flexible has Excellent holdout and is Clear drying. Ideal for Use on paper, cardboard, textiles, timber glass, ceramics and many more surfaces. Apply a thin even coat with a brush, over the basecoat (usually terracotta.) Allow 5-10 minutes curing time before applying leaf. Once the size changes colour from white to clear, apply the metal leaf to the surface. Depending on the thickness of application, the open time is approximately 10-12 hours. The applied size is cured when the surface tack dulls. Apply leaf to all applied areas as the size will remain tacky. Wash brushes or applicators with water immediately after use.