In the process of making an illuminated manuscript through the Morgan Book Project, our kids began with an in-depth lesson on paint making. They learned the three elements needed to make paint: pigment, binder, and solvent.
To illuminate their manuscripts, they applied 22K gold leaf using fish glue. This is a very delicate process! We first learned that the glue comes from the bladder of the sturgeon fish. Then they learned how to apply one dot of glue, let it dry, and then blow 3 breaths to activate the glue before gently pressing in the gold leaf.
To make a very light teal color, we use malachite - which must first be ground into a very sturdy mortar and pestle.
After the malachite is ground, it is then pressed with water onto a stone board.
Leave a comment