Hi everyone, I really hope you enjoy this new episode! Firstly, I want to apologise for my absence last week - I had an issue with my laptop and it had to go in for repair, which meant I couldn't edit. I've also been getting quite a few comments/emails from people saying they are not being notified by UA-cam about new videos when they are uploaded. I would kindly ask that if you enjoy this channel, please do subscribe and make sure you hit the bell alert button so that you don't miss new episodes when they launch. I really enjoyed the process of gilding my mirror and hope you enjoy it too! Have a lovely week - Nicolas
Briwax is used to make wooden items appear to be aged. I have a friend who imports English and French furniture and his woodworker uses it, to great effect. It's a lovely addition to your living room! When you have your own place, you will be able to hang it and it will be very majestic! I have European frames which are gilded and they all have a red undercoat. You were so right about all of the horizontal lines in your room; very observant of you. Can't wait to hear what your friends think of the mirror! I'm sure that they will all love it! Take care, your friend in Kansas City, Tom 😃🎉🎉🎉🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌷🌷🌷🌷
Nicolas need to paint the black lamps to gold. Is going to make an outstanding finishing decor and are going to be a rounded look. The black lights draw too much attention and clash with the decor. Please consider the alternative. Thank you
Hey Nicolas! Loved the DIY project with you. My wife surprised me with a Valentine's Night out a week ago Saturday. She gave me ten minutes to get ready for a Restaurant Meal out, followed by Community Theatre Tickets. It was beautiful. Now, this week, the whole family is fighting head colds. Stay well! ❤F&A
@@rosalineslon6910YES! Exactly what I wanted to say! Nicolas, please get rid of those black wall sconce lamps. Black fixtures are going to go out of style very soon now, and so is gray paint. The gold looks fantastic in your room and brightens it up. Edinburgh does not get that much sunlight you do not need all that gray in your house. You look beautiful in a warmly sunlit room and deserve to have gorgeousness all around you, so please get rid of those terrible black lamps. We will all rest better.
Hi Nicolas , as a decorative painter working in Doha , I do gilding as part of my job and I would like to offer a little bit of advice for future projects ...the longer you leave the gilding glue (gilding size ) the better ..it is supposed to get more tacky as time goes on, if it's a good quality product. We work on our glues for almost 12 hours and they remain tacky. What you MUST ensure is that absolutely no dust adheres to the glue as this renders it absolutely useless. I am hugely impressed at your skills for a beginner ...you're a complete natural . What enhances the gold and gives you a gorgeous antique look , is painting a deep ox-blood red prior to applying the glue. When you apply your leaves , they usually crack and break as you will have noticed , and the red shows through the broken gold to give an aged patina which is so sought after . Congratulations on a job really well done ! If you're not super happy with the bright gold a little dark wax will give you the perfect antique patina. We mix up a glaze using oil paints in burnt umber and raw umber to create the same effect .
@@NicolasFairford😊 That spectacular mirror is quite the ✨️Show Stopper✨️. The gilding only brought out her full 💫glory. 😉Marvelous job, esp. for a first timer. Thx for plunging in on this tutorial. Although w/o a drop cloth I would find 🌟gold glitz🌟 about for weeks😬. 😁This amazing individual left some brilliant decorative paint tips for which I am most appreciative🎉. Even though you didn't start out w/a 🔺️red base🔻, your applying a dark wax might still add an interesting depth to this piece. Live w/it a while to see how the idea sits w/you. 😘Blessings fair Nicolas. 💚Bridget from Cali☘️ (using my pal's YT acct)
Gorgeous transformation! And you’re right about appreciating the sun when we get it. It’s been such a wet, gloomy Winter. Your mirror is going to brighten up the room in any weather. ❤
Well now we need to replace the wall sconces with some lovely antique Rococo brass swirls or fluer de lis to go along with this Fantastic Lovely Mirror 🪞! Beautiful addition Nicolas ! xx
Old gold leaf usually started with a red background. Starting with brown may have given you the old look you wanted. The brown wax should help. Enjoyed your video. The lamps are great!
I would very sparingly apply gold leafing red basecoat paint in small points on the raised part of the carving and a bit on the lower parts on the frame to get that antique look, before applying the wax. If you look at old furniture you will see the red basecoat appearing where the gold leaf has worn away over the years. A good example would be 18th century Louis XV mirrors. You will see the raised parts and a bit of the lower parts of the carving showing the wearing off of the gold leaf exposing the red basecoat. Look for gold leafing red basecoat. You might want to also look into a bit of crackle finishing on some discreet parts of the frame.
I think the bright look is wonderful especially with the fireplace surround. The chrome is bright and shiny, so it seems to play well.Your abstract painting would look gorgeous with a thin gold frame around it.
First of all, I want to say that I am improving my English while listening to you. You are very calm. You are also very successful in renovation and decoration. You've made a nice change again. The mirror looks very nice.
You're never going to please everyone one Nichols but I personally prefer your new style. Its updated, less flowery and you're gathering some nice pieces that compliment each other. A home should be built up over the years by things you have enjoyed hunting for and buying. That is a true home in my humble opinion.
Hi , I paint mirrors/ frames dark brown or black , then leaf, then use an antiquing gel to tone down the gold and make it look more burnished , the gel sits in the crevices after you wipe of off so it brings out all the detail.
I enjoyed your video very much…as always. I have an 8 foot length of bamboo I bought for nearly nothing and have never been able to find a use for it. My home is traditional and flavored with chinoiserie, so I always thought it would fit in some how. After watching this, I know exactly what I’m going to do. I need a floor lamp and my lovely spouse worked as an electrician early on. in fact, we made a set of lamps from some beautiful Asian vases! I am also an artist, so I will be painting the bamboo. Thank you❤!
The mirror is good and the right size for that fireplace. To antique the gold, use the dark wax and dry brush it on. It’s easier to add than to take away. Get your brush very dry with most of the wax off. And just keep dry brushing til you get it as dirty as you like. I do like a little shine to come through though. Good job so far!
Love the transformation (in process)! Have you tried “Rub n Buff - Wax metallic paste”? It is super easy to use and I have transformed many picture frames before. I get it at a hobby/craft store but I’m sure you can search online to find some in your area. I like using several colors to get more depth and a bit of contrast. Just a bit of kitchen roll and some “rub and buff” and you are good to go. You may like some small spongy brushes to get into the deeper carvings of that mirror with so many creases and crevices. Then some kitchen roll over the end of the brush handle to buff. Easy-peasy! I think it’s great you tried working with gold leaf. Wanting to know how easy it was to get all the tiny bits off your rug, as those little flecks travel about almost as much as glitter! 😳🙃🤷🏻♀️ this mirror will be fabulous when you get it the tones you desire! Please let us tag along on those finishing steps. 😊🥰😍
The mirror turned out quite nice. Can’t wait to see it when waxed. The lamps, including the darling little one with bamboo, are stunning. I wish chrome would fit in my scheme, though 1200 per lamp is a bit dear for my budget. Your room looks so wonderful with all your recent changes.
I enjoyed learning how to gild as I have a dressing table mirror I have had for many years and the original gilding has worn away, so I am going to have a go. thank you. I think the gold frame of your mirror adds some lovely warmth to your living room.
I love the lamps and the mirror will look complete.Once you apply the second phase that is the Annie Slone wax will tone it down. Watch a you tube on applying the wax because that is new and tricky. You did a nice job and it is relaxing. New things are fun to try.
Well done Phillip - the lamps are gorgeous. Nicholas, i think you should buy another pair of the taller ones for either side of your new mirror as the one you placed on your mantle looked lovely, and balanced the scale of the mirror.
That would mean he would have 6 lighting features on one wall, Too many with the fireplace lights beside on the wall. And then the 2 on the bar. The candles are nice and when the fireplace is going will give light, if he uses it.
Nicholas, thank you so much for doing this video and showing and speaking about any errors that you made. I have a very similar mirror. Not exactly in shape but in color and intricacy. I’ve been feeling that it needs a bit of some thing for quite some time, but I wasn’t sure what to do. I’m quite certain that I can do this Gold leafing. And I love the way that yours has turned out.
Hi Nicolas, Love your new mirror. Actually I love your room especially the new lamps the chrome lamps. Your video this week was extremely relaxing and very calm. Thank you so much love from Ireland xx
I love the tiny Chatsworth model, especially in combination with the garden parterre book underneath and the painting behind it. It makes it look like a small world one can only dream to live in.
Nicolas thank you for your mirror showing me how to do it. Nice finished it radiates well and blends well with the rest of the furniture in the living 😢. The lights lamb are very versatile and chic . Very easy to place it where you want it to be. Love the changes excellent job well done . Keep up the good work. God bless you today. God bless you and family. 😊😊😊
Wow! As always, I'm impressed with your patience and determination in household projects, to say nothing of your skills! I have a number of eighteenth-century French and Italian mirrors on which the bole or gesso is showing in spots, but I can never match the patina in my feeble attempts at renewal/restoration, so at age 75 I have given up and reconciled myself to their -- and my -- decrepitude. Had I but world enough and time, I would try to emulate your perseverance. Thanks . . .
Charming as always to be invited to see Your Superior Taste in Your perfectly designed home. Lovely !The best thing You offer is Your Own Personality. As an old man I can discern that You are Truly Wonderful Person. 🙂
@@NicolasFairford Yes, love the mix of modern & vintage too. Strikes me as Art Deco meets 🍸Speakeasy here. Excellent style instincts. 💚Bridget from Cali☘️ (using my pal's YT acct)
Wonderful transformation of your living/sitting space. I love how you are taking your time with it. The chrome lamps are very elegant. Perhaps try little strokes with a tiny brush of Rub n Buff metallic wax mixing the colors gold leaf and ebony together or even just undiluted acrylic paint? I was wondering if you have considered hanging the abstract painting a little higher?! And putting the bookcase on the right side of the fireplace and the console table on the left side, just swapping them to balance out furniture distribution in the room? Keep up the good work! Looking forward to future updates!
I love how your decorating style has evolved over the years. It still has elements of traditional English but now with a touch of contemporary. Very chic and cozy at the same time. Love how the mirror turned out.
I think the gilded mirror really lifts the room. ❤ The lamps look nice. Personally I would prefer the option of the smaller bamboo version. I have a desk space that needs a small light and it would work very well.
You did good and you are right. I just also noticed the gold that is at the bottom of the mantle by the fireplace is gold. It really looks very nice since that is the only gold I can see in that side of the room. So, yes my friend good job👏👏👏👏
Nicolas! Thanks for another enjoyable glimpse into your life. I must admit that I admire your willingness to take on DIY projects that others might shy away from. I'm a lover of gold, so I think the mirror turned out beautifully. It truly is a great piece and a terrific addition to your home. Now, far be it from me to tell you what to do, but I've had a cocktail or two, so I am speaking freely. The abstract painting that your friend created for you (to the left of the mirror) is such a truly unique and beautiful piece of artwork, that it should never be obscured by a lamp. It belongs on full display as a tribute to both the artist and your exceptional taste. Take that for what it's worth. In any case, please accept my very best wishes for a springtime that brings continued inspiration and much continued success. And be sure to find time to be good to yourself!
Nicolas, Your new mirror looks stunning in the gold leaf treatment. You are so right. Your living room needed a bold gold tone. What a great focal point the mirror makes. I can already imagine how you'll decorate it for the holidays this year. Love, Love, Love!
Thank you for sharing this process Nicholas. Can’t wait to see how you change it with the wax. The scroll design is beautiful against the straight lines in the room. I have a set of rechargeable lamps, although not as lovely as yours. My husband won them at work. They are just a circular top/base and a brown color. I was considering painting them. They are great for moving around the house when I’m painting, reading, etc. 💕Sophie.
That has made a wonderful change to the subdued palette. There are also gold powders you can use, that are wonderful for the antique look, there are many shades of gold to choose from, even a couple of shades together can look most effective. Green and Stone of Chelsea are worth looking at, even looking in, if you are in London, they supply EVERYTHING for the artist. Great job by the way!
You have done a great job Nicolas, the gilding of the frame matches the colour of the wall very well and gives it brightness, its original colour would have made the look of that central point of the room a bit dull😊
I love it! It came out great, I’m a DIYer so I appreciate the artistic flair you had with it. Nothing beats creativity and better when it’s on a budget too ❤
Very nice transformation. The gold brighten the room & is definitely a focal point drawing attention to the center of the room where you /designers want it. To get that aged patina, buy warm copper or soft bronze paint and tiny brush into the grey areas. Love the tall skinny RH lamps. Before you guided it gold, which does look nice, I want to suggest use silver for continuity but the mix is nice. As you show the room, I want to shift the big white lamp to the side so it doesn’t block the full view of your green painting. Now you’ve got that spectacular ornate mirror those black contemporary wall scones look off. consider moving the sconces to the neighboring wall above the black framed maps aimed down like Portrait Lighting. Congratulations on stopping alcohol, the best news, I’ve done it too, stick with it you won’t regret it.
The nature picture above your bar area, grounded with the dark table😊…..it is made for that space😊 this and the long side chest, with the long horizontal nature picture are both perfect…😊.they both help ground the wall area and ground the room🎉🎉🎉
I really like the frame itself but I don't care for the gray. Applying the gold leaf was a great idea ..... however, I think had you painted the frame a darker colour first, and then added the touches of gold leaf as you did, it would look more authentic. I have seen this process done where a burnt sienna or even an expresso colour is laid down first with the leafing over top. As you mentioned, you can now go in on top with another to produced an antique look. The mirror looks lovely atop your fireplace. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada.
I always look forward to your videos - I love them! I also love your beautiful home, you and Sophie (not necessarily in that order. I am a photographer and designer - my suggestion is that the new mirror looks great but not near the abstract painting I would put the new one on the wall by the drinks and the sheep one over the fireplace. Whatever you do, your home will always be a place I'd love to live in. Please never stop your videos. With love, Janet ❤
😊 I quite enjoy the juxtaposition of the contemporary & antique. It offers sophisticated style. Love a sentimental as well as a confident connoisseur. Much more visually stimulating in my book. 💚Bridget from Cali☘️ (using my pal's YT acct)
Selling the lamps again is a great idea. It is so hard to find well designed lighting at an affordable price. The combination of the bamboo and chrome is beautiful.
Hello from Huntington Beach CA! Love your channel and love your videos. I had to share that even though the mirror was beautiful as it came, the gold made it even more so beautiful. I love watching the process of the guilding. Thank you for sharing!
It turned out really nice! I do think taking the shine down a bit will be a good thing. Nothing gives the same finish as using actual foil sheets. You might should have warned people that it can be very messy and you'll end up with tiny bits of foil *everywhere!* There is one thing about artificial leaf, though, to be aware of. It tarnishes over time. You may want to consider spraying it with a clear lacquer sealer. It comes in gloss, semi-gloss, and matte which you probably don't want. Left exposed it will slowly darken over the next few years.
That mirror looks amazing! I can't wait to see it with the wax applied. I do think it will give you the aged look that you are trying to achieve. Well done!
Also, Thank you for mentioning the alcohol free gin ,as i too went alcohol free a few years ago. It was so nice of you to show the brand. Now I can have something socially :)
O love the contemporary touches you've given to your living . It definitely needed less classic design and more modern pieces to contrast. Right at the target, Nicolas. You could change more.😉
LOVE how this turned out! Such a beautiful mirror 😍 I haven’t worked with gold leaf in ages but it’s such a fantastic way to refinish something. Kisses to Sophie! 😘❤️
Your mirror looks beautiful! Thank you for the tutorial on gold leaf, I've always wanted to try it out myself so it was very helpful to see your work! As always you create elegant things and I love the presentation!
Thank you Nicholas. Enjoyed this project and viewing your "sunshine" room. I do like the painting with an unobscured view...love the chrome lamps and the tufted bench in front of the fire. Inspired me to do some serious editing around my little apartment. Spring is a great time to start new projects...it's like enriching the soil for planting. Just discovered your channel this evening and of course look forward to seeing more. Thank you!
Hi Nicolas, another pleasant video in your company! I really like how you painted the mirror gold, it looks really good above the fireplace 👍🏻 The lamps are also really beautiful 👍🏻I send you greetings and see you in the next video ❤️🙋🏼♀️
Viewers... Make sure to secure mirrors & pictures above fireplaces to your walls & mantles. A good friend or ours propped a mirror on a mantle like this and it eventually fell & broke on her head. We rushed her to immediate care where she received stitches & permanent scars on her face & neck. ❤️🙏
Hi everyone, I really hope you enjoy this new episode! Firstly, I want to apologise for my absence last week - I had an issue with my laptop and it had to go in for repair, which meant I couldn't edit. I've also been getting quite a few comments/emails from people saying they are not being notified by UA-cam about new videos when they are uploaded. I would kindly ask that if you enjoy this channel, please do subscribe and make sure you hit the bell alert button so that you don't miss new episodes when they launch. I really enjoyed the process of gilding my mirror and hope you enjoy it too! Have a lovely week - Nicolas
Briwax is used to make wooden items appear to be aged. I have a friend who imports English and
French furniture and his woodworker uses it, to great effect. It's a lovely addition to your living room! When you have your own place, you will be able to hang it and it will be very majestic!
I have European frames which are gilded and they all have a red undercoat.
You were so right about all of the horizontal lines in your room; very observant of you. Can't wait to hear what your friends think of the mirror! I'm sure that they will all love it!
Take care, your friend in Kansas City, Tom 😃🎉🎉🎉🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌷🌷🌷🌷
Nicolas need to paint the black lamps to gold. Is going to make an outstanding finishing decor and are going to be a rounded look. The black lights draw too much attention and clash with the decor. Please consider the alternative. Thank you
Hey Nicolas!
Loved the DIY project with you. My wife surprised me with a Valentine's Night out a week ago Saturday. She gave me ten minutes to get ready for a Restaurant Meal out, followed by Community Theatre Tickets. It was beautiful. Now, this week, the whole family is fighting head colds.
Stay well!
❤F&A
@@rosalineslon6910YES! Exactly what I wanted to say! Nicolas, please get rid of those black wall sconce lamps. Black fixtures are going to go out of style very soon now, and so is gray paint. The gold looks fantastic in your room and brightens it up. Edinburgh does not get that much sunlight you do not need all that gray in your house. You look beautiful in a warmly sunlit room and deserve to have gorgeousness all around you, so please get rid of those terrible black lamps. We will all rest better.
Help I'm not being notified by UA-cam about new videos what do I do?
Hi Nicolas , as a decorative painter working in Doha , I do gilding as part of my job and I would like to offer a little bit of advice for future projects ...the longer you leave the gilding glue (gilding size ) the better ..it is supposed to get more tacky as time goes on, if it's a good quality product. We work on our glues for almost 12 hours and they remain tacky. What you MUST ensure is that absolutely no dust adheres to the glue as this renders it absolutely useless. I am hugely impressed at your skills for a beginner ...you're a complete natural . What enhances the gold and gives you a gorgeous antique look , is painting a deep ox-blood red prior to applying the glue. When you apply your leaves , they usually crack and break as you will have noticed , and the red shows through the broken gold to give an aged patina which is so sought after .
Congratulations on a job really well done ! If you're not super happy with the bright gold a little dark wax will give you the perfect antique patina. We mix up a glaze using oil paints in burnt umber and raw umber to create the same effect .
Fascinating tips! Thank you so much! Would love to come and see your work next time I'm there!
@@NicolasFairford😊 That spectacular mirror is quite the ✨️Show Stopper✨️. The gilding only brought out her full 💫glory.
😉Marvelous job, esp. for a first timer. Thx for plunging in on this tutorial. Although w/o a drop cloth I would find 🌟gold glitz🌟 about for weeks😬.
😁This amazing individual left some brilliant decorative paint tips for which I am most appreciative🎉. Even though you didn't start out w/a 🔺️red base🔻, your applying a dark wax might still add an interesting depth to this piece. Live w/it a while to see how the idea sits w/you.
😘Blessings fair Nicolas.
💚Bridget from Cali☘️
(using my pal's YT acct)
Gorgeous transformation! And you’re right about appreciating the sun when we get it. It’s been such a wet, gloomy Winter. Your mirror is going to brighten up the room in any weather. ❤
Question about the gilding, I suppose if you applied the gilding leaf more sparingly you’d achieve the effect Nicholas got on the top section?
Well now we need to replace the wall sconces with some lovely antique Rococo brass swirls or fluer de lis to go along with this Fantastic Lovely Mirror 🪞! Beautiful addition Nicolas ! xx
Yes it's time!
You're right! I'm onto it!
You’re home is always beautiful & elegant and your mirror frame looks amazing.
Thank you so much! I'm so happy you think so!
Old gold leaf usually started with a red background. Starting with brown may have given you the old look you wanted. The brown wax should help. Enjoyed your video. The lamps are great!
Good tips - thank you!
I would very sparingly apply gold leafing red basecoat paint in small points on the raised part of the carving and a bit on the lower parts on the frame to get that antique look, before applying the wax. If you look at old furniture you will see the red basecoat appearing where the gold leaf has worn away over the years. A good example would be 18th century Louis XV mirrors. You will see the raised parts and a bit of the lower parts of the carving showing the wearing off of the gold leaf exposing the red basecoat. Look for gold leafing red basecoat. You might want to also look into a bit of crackle finishing on some discreet parts of the frame.
I remember that tip from the loads of craft shows that used to be on tv in the US back in early days of cable tv. Red base under gold leaf.
I think the bright look is wonderful especially with the fireplace surround. The chrome is bright and shiny, so it seems to play well.Your abstract painting would look gorgeous with a thin gold frame around it.
I think the abstract painting looks great just as it is.
The mirror looks gorgeous! What a stunning focal point!
Thank you so much!
First of all, I want to say that I am improving my English while listening to you. You are very calm. You are also very successful in renovation and decoration. You've made a nice change again. The mirror looks very nice.
You're apartment is gorgeous....a man of many talents.
You're really kind! Thank you!
You're never going to please everyone one Nichols but I personally prefer your new style. Its updated, less flowery and you're gathering some nice pieces that compliment each other. A home should be built up over the years by things you have enjoyed hunting for and buying. That is a true home in my humble opinion.
What's wrong with flowery?
I love Arts and Crafty Videos!
I hope you enjoy this one!
Hi , I paint mirrors/ frames dark brown or black , then leaf, then use an antiquing gel to tone down the gold and make it look more burnished , the gel sits in the crevices after you wipe of off so it brings out all the detail.
It may not have been what you wanted but it suits the area perfectly!
I enjoyed your video very much…as always. I have an 8 foot length of bamboo I bought for nearly nothing and have never been able to find a use for it. My home is traditional and flavored with chinoiserie, so I always thought it would fit in some how. After watching this, I know exactly what I’m going to do. I need a floor lamp and my lovely spouse worked as an electrician early on. in fact, we made a set of lamps from some beautiful Asian vases! I am also an artist, so I will be painting the bamboo. Thank you❤!
Sounds exciting!
The mirror is good and the right size for that fireplace. To antique the gold, use the dark wax and dry brush it on. It’s easier to add than to take away. Get your brush very dry with most of the wax off. And just keep dry brushing til you get it as dirty as you like. I do like a little shine to come through though. Good job so far!
Thanks for the excellent tip!
@@NicolasFairford my pleasure. If that doesn’t do it, you can also use a dark glaze that’s used for antiquing.
Just love how you doing such DIYs effortlessly, in your nice clothes, on your nice table and with old techniques. So elegant.
Haha thank you so much!
Nicolas never makes a mess if it was me l would have the glue and gold all over the place 😂
What a gorgeous project Nicolas!!! ⚜️🤍✨ It looks stunning sitting over your fireplace! I also love your idea you have to add to it.
Thank you! I'm so pleased you like it!
Love the transformation (in process)! Have you tried “Rub n Buff - Wax metallic paste”? It is super easy to use and I have transformed many picture frames before. I get it at a hobby/craft store but I’m sure you can search online to find some in your area.
I like using several colors to get more depth and a bit of contrast. Just a bit of kitchen roll and some “rub and buff” and you are good to go. You may like some small spongy brushes to get into the deeper carvings of that mirror with so many creases and crevices. Then some kitchen roll over the end of the brush handle to buff. Easy-peasy!
I think it’s great you tried working with gold leaf. Wanting to know how easy it was to get all the tiny bits off your rug, as those little flecks travel about almost as much as glitter! 😳🙃🤷🏻♀️ this mirror will be fabulous when you get it the tones you desire! Please let us tag along on those finishing steps. 😊🥰😍
I will check that out! Thank you!
The mirror turned out quite nice. Can’t wait to see it when waxed. The lamps, including the darling little one with bamboo, are stunning. I wish chrome would fit in my scheme, though 1200 per lamp is a bit dear for my budget. Your room looks so wonderful with all your recent changes.
I enjoyed learning how to gild as I have a dressing table mirror I have had for many years and the original gilding has worn away, so I am going to have a go. thank you. I think the gold frame of your mirror adds some lovely warmth to your living room.
I like what you did with the mirror . It made a huge difference!
I love the lamps and the mirror will look complete.Once you apply the second phase that is the Annie Slone wax will tone it down. Watch a you tube on applying the wax because that is new and tricky. You did a nice job and it is relaxing. New things are fun to try.
Thanks!
Well done Phillip - the lamps are gorgeous. Nicholas, i think you should buy another pair of the taller ones for either side of your new mirror as the one you placed on your mantle looked lovely, and balanced the scale of the mirror.
I think it would be too many of the same lamp in one room. I will pass on your kind words to Philip!
Gold lamps
That would mean he would have 6 lighting features on one wall, Too many with the fireplace lights beside on the wall. And then the 2 on the bar. The candles are nice and when the fireplace is going will give light, if he uses it.
@@NicolasFairfordI concur!
Nicholas, thank you so much for doing this video and showing and speaking about any errors that you made. I have a very similar mirror. Not exactly in shape but in color and intricacy. I’ve been feeling that it needs a bit of some thing for quite some time, but I wasn’t sure what to do. I’m quite certain that I can do this Gold leafing. And I love the way that yours has turned out.
How well you combine a mirror with classic and golden moldings with such a modern painting in your livingroom. GORGEOUS!!!❤❤
Adding the gold to that mirror frame really made a difference. It looks amazing, and it “pops” in the room. Well done!
Hi Nicolas, Love your new mirror. Actually I love your room especially the new lamps the chrome lamps. Your video this week was extremely relaxing and very calm. Thank you so much love from Ireland xx
So glad you think so! Thank you!
I love the tiny Chatsworth model, especially in combination with the garden parterre book underneath and the painting behind it. It makes it look like a small world one can only dream to live in.
I love that thought! Thank you!
Nicolas thank you for your mirror showing me how to do it. Nice finished it radiates well and blends well with the rest of the furniture in the living 😢. The lights lamb are very versatile and chic . Very easy to place it where you want it to be. Love the changes excellent job well done . Keep up the good work. God bless you today. God bless you and family. 😊😊😊
I'm glad you liked the result!
Wow! As always, I'm impressed with your patience and determination in household projects, to say nothing of your skills! I have a number of eighteenth-century French and Italian mirrors on which the bole or gesso is showing in spots, but I can never match the patina in my feeble attempts at renewal/restoration, so at age 75 I have given up and reconciled myself to their -- and my -- decrepitude. Had I but world enough and time, I would try to emulate your perseverance. Thanks . . .
I'm sure them and you are just wonderful
Greetings from Canada, my mother and I have watched you for years now and, we just adore you immensely 🩵
Charming as always to be invited to see Your Superior Taste in Your perfectly designed home. Lovely !The best thing You offer is Your Own Personality. As an old man I can discern that You are Truly Wonderful Person. 🙂
What a kind thing to say! Thank you!
Those lamps are really cool. I love the height, sleekness, small footprint, and chargeability. So versatile and pretty.
So glad you like them as much as I do!
@@NicolasFairford Yes, love the mix of modern & vintage too. Strikes me as Art Deco meets 🍸Speakeasy here.
Excellent style instincts.
💚Bridget from Cali☘️
(using my pal's YT acct)
Wonderful transformation of your living/sitting space. I love how you are taking your time with it. The chrome lamps are very elegant. Perhaps try little strokes with a tiny brush of Rub n Buff metallic wax mixing the colors gold leaf and ebony together or even just undiluted acrylic paint? I was wondering if you have considered hanging the abstract painting a little higher?! And putting the bookcase on the right side of the fireplace and the console table on the left side, just swapping them to balance out furniture distribution in the room? Keep up the good work! Looking forward to future updates!
I love how your decorating style has evolved over the years. It still has elements of traditional English but now with a touch of contemporary. Very chic and cozy at the same time. Love how the mirror turned out.
I think the gilded mirror really lifts the room. ❤
The lamps look nice. Personally I would prefer the option of the smaller bamboo version. I have a desk space that needs a small light and it would work very well.
You did good and you are right.
I just also noticed the gold that is at the bottom of the mantle by the fireplace is gold.
It really looks very nice since that is the only gold I can see in that side of the room.
So, yes my friend good job👏👏👏👏
Nicolas! Thanks for another enjoyable glimpse into your life. I must admit that I admire your willingness to take on DIY projects that others might shy away from. I'm a lover of gold, so I think the mirror turned out beautifully. It truly is a great piece and a terrific addition to your home. Now, far be it from me to tell you what to do, but I've had a cocktail or two, so I am speaking freely. The abstract painting that your friend created for you (to the left of the mirror) is such a truly unique and beautiful piece of artwork, that it should never be obscured by a lamp. It belongs on full display as a tribute to both the artist and your exceptional taste. Take that for what it's worth. In any case, please accept my very best wishes for a springtime that brings continued inspiration and much continued success. And be sure to find time to be good to yourself!
Absolutely stunning mirror, elevated the whole room!
Thank you! I completely agree
I love the new mirror! And love love the lamps that can be cordless! Another wonderful time with you!
So glad you enjoyed it!
Nicolas, Your new mirror looks stunning in the gold leaf treatment. You are so right. Your living room needed a bold gold tone. What a great focal point the mirror makes. I can already imagine how you'll decorate it for the holidays this year. Love, Love, Love!
I love watching your videos,, so relaxing,, learning about many things to garnish our lifestyle,, thanks!!
Love the new lamps and the addition of the mirror. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you for sharing this process Nicholas. Can’t wait to see how you change it with the wax. The scroll design is beautiful against the straight lines in the room. I have a set of rechargeable lamps, although not as lovely as yours. My husband won them at work. They are just a circular top/base and a brown color. I was considering painting them. They are great for moving around the house when I’m painting, reading, etc. 💕Sophie.
Everything is coming along nicely. Maybe you could replace the one large lamp that appears to be hiding your new oil painting. 💚
I think I will try this on a couple of mirrors. Thank you for showing us how and all the great tips.❤
The mirror turned out beautifully! Love the size, shape and color. Old World charm. Makes an elegant statement. ❤
Thank you so much !
Glad to watch your vlog again. I have gilded an antique candelabra before and it was a good fun. Like you say you try and learn as you along. 😀
Love the bamboo lamp
The mirror looks gorgeous.
The mirror is beautiful love the golden frame.🥰
Thank you so much !
I love your gold on the mirror and your home sweet home is always beautiful 😊
That has made a wonderful change to the subdued palette. There are also gold powders you can use, that are wonderful for the antique look, there are many shades of gold to choose from, even a couple of shades together can look most effective. Green and Stone of Chelsea are worth looking at, even looking in, if you are in London, they supply EVERYTHING for the artist. Great job by the way!
You have done a great job Nicolas, the gilding of the frame matches the colour of the wall very well and gives it brightness, its original colour would have made the look of that central point of the room a bit dull😊
I like the "shiny new" as you say. It matches your fireplace insert. 😊
I love it! It came out great, I’m a DIYer so I appreciate the artistic flair you had with it. Nothing beats creativity and better when it’s on a budget too ❤
Thank you so much!
Very nice transformation. The gold brighten the room & is definitely a focal point drawing attention to the center of the room where you /designers want it. To get that aged patina, buy warm copper or soft bronze paint and tiny brush into the grey areas. Love the tall skinny RH lamps. Before you guided it gold, which does look nice, I want to suggest use silver for continuity but the mix is nice. As you show the room, I want to shift the big white lamp to the side so it doesn’t block the full view of your green painting. Now you’ve got that spectacular ornate mirror those black contemporary wall scones look off. consider moving the sconces to the neighboring wall above the black framed maps aimed down like Portrait Lighting. Congratulations on stopping alcohol, the best news, I’ve done it too, stick with it you won’t regret it.
The nature picture above your bar area, grounded with the dark table😊…..it is made for that space😊 this and the long side chest, with the long horizontal nature picture are both perfect…😊.they both help ground the wall area and ground the room🎉🎉🎉
Thanks so much!
Thanks so much, Nicolas! Your instructions are very helpful.
I really like the frame itself but I don't care for the gray. Applying the gold leaf was a great idea ..... however, I think had you painted the frame a darker colour first, and then added the touches of gold leaf as you did, it would look more authentic. I have seen this process done where a burnt sienna or even an expresso colour is laid down first with the leafing over top. As you mentioned, you can now go in on top with another to produced an antique look. The mirror looks lovely atop your fireplace. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada.
Loved video and mirror transformation. You always have such great ideas and impeccable castle. Yes, yes, and yes to the lamps. I also love them.
Love❤ lamps. Perfect proportion!
Next time, do an under basecoat in redish brown. This color is sometimes called Venetian Red. You will get a nicer, more antique effect.
I always look forward to your videos - I love them!
I also love your beautiful home, you and Sophie (not necessarily in that order.
I am a photographer and designer - my suggestion is that the new mirror looks great but not near the abstract painting
I would put the new one on the wall by the drinks and the sheep one over the fireplace.
Whatever you do, your home will always be a place I'd love to live in. Please never stop your videos. With love, Janet ❤
Thanks for your very kind comments!
😊 I quite enjoy the juxtaposition of the contemporary & antique. It offers sophisticated style.
Love a sentimental as well as a confident connoisseur. Much more visually stimulating in my book.
💚Bridget from Cali☘️
(using my pal's YT acct)
Well done. The mirror looks so much better.
Selling the lamps again is a great idea. It is so hard to find well designed lighting at an affordable price. The combination of the bamboo and chrome is beautiful.
What a beautiful difference that made! Gorgeous home.
Thank you v v much!
Nicolas, Grand Duchess of Edinburgh, living his enchanted life and gilding an OKA mirror. It actually does look lovely.
Thank you! X
Love the mirror and doing crafts this vlog.
I like wood carving the gold leaf made it blended nicely with the room colour and furniture 😊
Your mirror project turned out lovely, Nicolas! Love all the projects that you take on! Great addition to your room dakor!
Hello from Huntington Beach CA! Love your channel and love your videos. I had to share that even though the mirror was beautiful as it came, the gold made it even more so beautiful. I love watching the process of the guilding. Thank you for sharing!
Each of your video vlogs are therapeutic! Thank you!
Hello, I’m so excited to watch this video! I love diy/crafts/project videos.
Ahh so glad! Hope you enjoy!
You did a Beautiful job Nicholas. Have A Fabulous Day ❤️
It turned out really nice! I do think taking the shine down a bit will be a good thing. Nothing gives the same finish as using actual foil sheets. You might should have warned people that it can be very messy and you'll end up with tiny bits of foil *everywhere!* There is one thing about artificial leaf, though, to be aware of. It tarnishes over time. You may want to consider spraying it with a clear lacquer sealer. It comes in gloss, semi-gloss, and matte which you probably don't want. Left exposed it will slowly darken over the next few years.
That mirror looks amazing! I can't wait to see it with the wax applied. I do think it will give you the aged look that you are trying to achieve. Well done!
Oh Nicolas, the mirror turned out, just beautiful, very nice job!!❤😊👍🏻
Also, Thank you for mentioning the alcohol free gin ,as i too went alcohol free a few years ago. It was so nice of you to show the brand. Now I can have something socially :)
That’s a lovely mirror and the gilding is perfect for it. My cousin has done gilding for a living and has done many stars homes
Mirror looks fabulous ❤
O love the contemporary touches you've given to your living . It definitely needed less classic design and more modern pieces to contrast. Right at the target, Nicolas. You could change more.😉
LOVE how this turned out! Such a beautiful mirror 😍 I haven’t worked with gold leaf in ages but it’s such a fantastic way to refinish something. Kisses to Sophie! 😘❤️
Gold leaf is a great idea...
Your mirror looks beautiful! Thank you for the tutorial on gold leaf, I've always wanted to try it out myself so it was very helpful to see your work! As always you create elegant things and I love the presentation!
Give it a go!
I absolutely love gilding things. This is a gorgeous mirror.
Thank you Nicholas. Enjoyed this project and viewing your "sunshine" room. I do like the painting with an unobscured view...love the chrome lamps and the tufted bench in front of the fire. Inspired me to do some serious editing around my little apartment. Spring is a great time to start new projects...it's like enriching the soil for planting. Just discovered your channel this evening and of course look forward to seeing more. Thank you!
The mirror looks great, Nicolas. Have you ever used Rub n Buff?
Hi Nicolas, another pleasant video in your company! I really like how you painted the mirror gold, it looks really good above the fireplace 👍🏻 The lamps are also really beautiful 👍🏻I send you greetings and see you in the next video ❤️🙋🏼♀️
That turned out gorgeous! Wonderful job🎉
Thank you!
The mirror looks great, just glaze it down. And absolutely yes to those lamps ,there Chic...
What a fab mirror! Can't wait to see the finished look!❤
It is beautiful isn't it!
Hi Nicolas. Great job on the mirror it looks amazing
Hello love from New York, as always it’s just beautiful Nicolas great job!! Stay happy stay strong
I love the lamps being able to unplug them is great my flat has limited outlets
The mirror looks great in gold! Fun to watch the process.
Viewers... Make sure to secure mirrors & pictures above fireplaces to your walls & mantles. A good friend or ours propped a mirror on a mantle like this and it eventually fell & broke on her head. We rushed her to immediate care where she received stitches & permanent scars on her face & neck. ❤️🙏
I like that you're not afraid to try something new. I think it looks quite nice.
You make it look fun .I hope you love it. It was nice that nae gave it to you.and you will love it.
It looks seriously amazing and lifts the whole room
I think the color of your mirror frame is perfect and understated!