Genuine Leaf Rolls (Ribbon)
Genuine Metal Leaf Rolls—also known as Ribbon Leaf—provide an efficient format for applying metal leaf to large, flat surfaces. In this format, individual leaves are placed onto a continuous length of lightweight paper with slight overlaps, creating a long ribbon of metal leaf that can be unrolled and applied smoothly across prepared surfaces.
Unlike patent (transfer) leaf, which is pressed onto tissue paper, ribbon leaf is attached to the backing paper through a light application of wax during the rolling process. This allows the leaf to remain aligned along the paper while still releasing easily during application. Because of this construction, ribbon leaf is typically used with oil or synthetic gilding sizes and is best suited for flat or gently curved surfaces. The backing paper prevents the leaf from reaching deeply into ornate carvings or recessed details. Due to the wax residue left from the rolling process, water-based sealers and topcoats are not recommended, as they may not properly adhere to the gilded surface.
Sepp Leaf Products offers Genuine Leaf Rolls in several metals, including gold, palladium, and silver. These rolls are commonly used for architectural finishes, signage, frames, and other large-scale gilding projects where speed and efficiency are important.
Standard master rolls measure approximately 104 mm (4-1/8 inches) in width and about 67 feet (20.5 meters) in length. Each roll is assembled by placing 4-1/8 inch square leaves along the continuous paper backing with an approximate 2 mm overlap, creating a consistent ribbon that allows for streamlined application.
Ribbon Leaf Rolls are ideal for:
• Large flat surfaces
• Architectural finishes and panels
• Signage and lettering
• Frames and decorative elements
• Production or repetitive gilding work
Because ribbon leaf is adhered to the backing paper with wax, it behaves differently from loose or patent leaf and requires proper environmental storage. Ribbon leaf is sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. If stored in a dry, warm environment, the leaf may loosen from the paper. In hot and humid conditions, the leaf may adhere too tightly to the backing paper.
For best results, store ribbon leaf at normal room temperature and humidity. During long-term storage, wrapping the roll in plastic wrap or placing it in a sealable plastic bag will help stabilize the paper’s moisture content and maintain consistent performance during application.
When properly handled and stored, Genuine Ribbon Leaf Rolls offer a practical and efficient solution for gilding large surfaces while maintaining the brilliance and quality of genuine metal leaf.
For product availability please call 212-683-2840 or email sales@seppleaf.com
Leaf Coverage (approximate) Chart: | |||
Material | Size | Quantity | Coverage |
| Gold Leaf - Pack | 3-3/8 inch x 3-3/8 inch (85 mm x 85 mm) | 500 Leaves | 39.5 sq. ft. (3.66 m^2) |
| Gold Leaf - Book | 3-3/8 inch x 3-3/8 inch (85 mm x 85 mm) | 25 Leaves | 1.98 sq. ft. (0.17 m^2) |
| Metal Leaf - Pack | 5-1/2 inch x 5-1/2 inch (139 mm x 139 mm) | 500 Leaves | 105 sq. ft. (9.75 m^2) |
| Metal Leaf - Book | 5-1/2 inch x 5-1/2 inch (139 mm x 139 mm) | 25 Leaves | 5.25 sq. ft. (0.48 m^2) |
| Japanese Leaf | 4-5/16 inch x 4-5/16 inch (109 mm x 109 mm) | 500 Leaves | 64.6 sq. ft. (6 m^2) |
| Manetti - Italian Gold Roll | 4-1/8 inch x 67 ft. (104 mm x 20.4 m) | Master Roll | 22.25 sq. ft. (2.06 m^2) |
| Manetti - Italian Palladium Roll | 3 inch x 67 ft. (76 mm x 20.4 m) | Master Roll | 18.8 sq. ft. (1.74 m^2) |
| Crocodile - German Gold Roll | 4-1/8 inch x 69 ft. (104 mm x 21 m) | Master Roll | 23.5 sq. ft. (2.18 m^2) |
| Italian Silver Master Roll | 5-1/2 inch x 82 ft. (139 mm x 24.9 m^2) | Master Roll | 37.5 sq. ft. (3.48 m^2) |
| Metal Leaf Roll - 50 meter | 6-1/4 inch x 164 ft. (158 mm x 49.9 m^2) | Master Roll | 82 sq. ft. (7.61 m^2) |
| Metal Leaf Roll - 75 meter | 6-1/4 inch x 246 ft. (158 mm x 75 m) | Master Roll | 123 sq. ft. (11.4 m^2) |
| Schlagmetal Leaf - Box | 6-1/4 inch x 6-1/4 inch. (158 mm x 158 mm) | 10,000 Leaves | 2,720 sq. ft. (252.69 m^2) |
