The Painting Process

Lincrusta has a specific process that’s followed in order to achieve its unique look.

First, it’s primed with a lead-based primer.

Next, it is painted with a metallic paint, in this case silver.

Then, it’s covered in a layer of shellac that is saturated with flakes of base metals. These metals give it that Gilded Age look. They are also what tarnishes and causes it to lose that look.

Finally, in some cases, and certainly at Roseland Cottage, it’s installed, and painted again. In the case of our illustration here, the green was added to highlight the relief, as we believe the dining room fill was treated.