Gilder's cushion

DEFINITION

A pad about 6 to 12 inches in surface covered with cotton batting over a piece of suede, it is used to flatten gold leaf so that it can be cut and applied by the Gilder. The Cushion attaches to the thumb and secures the gold leaf from drafts so that it is absolutely flat. Sources: Ralph Mayer, "A Dictionary of Art Terms and Techniques"; Kimberley Reynolds & Richard Seddon, "Illustrated Dictionary of Art Terms"