In a word. WOW!

Now I've been intrigued with gold leafing for some time... even tried a little a few years ago.

Now as things settle down again after a few hectic but exciting years it's time to once again take up some new things. I can never stay the course and only do what's familiar or safe. It's not money I chase but growth and excellence.

When it was time to get a new truck recently, the color was picked to show off this new skill I didn't yet possess. I strongly considered vinyl for practical reasons and it will still have a little on the windows and other areas but the doors will be gold and paint.

So when I was afforded the opportunity last week to zip down to LA and hang with the best in the business I jumped at it.

For me it was as exciting as the very start of my career. I hadn't painted with a quill and enamels for years. In fact, I had to buy some new
quills just for this job. I relied on the advice of Lola and Rick as I selected my new tools and some GOLD with great delight. I still have to make up a maul stick for the actual job.

I prepared the glass as if it were my truck doors (surface guilding instead of reverse) and set about doing a practice piece.

The painting part was like riding a bike. Although a little rusty I hadn't forgotten all I had learned so many years ago. I was having a blast!

Many folks passing by were kind and supportive in their comments (even if they were wondering why I was working on the wrong side of the glass) To have the best in the business at your shoulder as you try new things is both intimidating and wonderful.

I am excited about this business all over again. There is a new challenge before me. I have so much to learn and practice. The truck doors will only be the start of many gold projects to come.

Down the road I hope to sell some work, but first I must master the skills as I work up some exciting projects for myself.

Once gold is under control I will have to dig out that glue for chipping I've had stored away for a few years.

By next years event I may just be good enough to tackle a very serious piece to show that I haven't been idle in the ensuing year.

Gonna be fun!

Now I have the confidence of knowing it still all can be done. I also have the resources to learn and experiment before I tackle a major project.

But just the same I am excited... even more so because I know I can do this and do a great job. The best part is that I am my own client for this job... hence no brakes, no finite timeline. I can spend the time and money to do it right. (the money isn't really a factor as the material cost is minimal)

I am excited about where I can take these new skills!

We all should take time to learn something new once in a while... explore a new facet of our craft.

It is important, and necessary to keep one's interest in the craft alive and also to be able to offer our clients the very best we can offer.

It is also FUN!

[ February 14, 2002: Message edited by: Rick Sacks ]

I'll be looking forward to seeing some pictures of that masterpiece.