Painting an old frame

[Neofita]

Hi there!

I got a old frame. I’m trying to bring it back. I started to sand it and I discovered it was gold in the inner part. So:

1) I would love to restore it in the same way. Do you have any idea on how to do it? How to reproduce this reddish antique gold? 
2) There is still the black paint on the black dots. Any idea on how to remove it without damaging the little dots?

attached pictures of my work in progress. comments and suggestions on my whole job are more then appreciated too!

Thanks!

 

[wtnhighlander]

I don't know where you are in the world, but craft stores in th US, like Hobby Lobby or Michael's, sell powdered metal pigments that can be mixed into paint or clear finish. The also carry metal leaf supplies, if you care to go that route.

Before sanding any more, I would use some warm water and detergent that is safe for wood, like Murphy's Oil soap. Use a nylon bristle brush, dip it in the water, and scrub away all the gunk you can. Wipe the moisture away frequently, so the wood doesn't become saturated. Might save a lot of sanding and repair of the surface. Unless completely removing the old finish is your goal. In that case, a chemical stripper will avoid excess surface damage. Citri-strip brand is supposed to be pretty safe to use.

[JohnG]

Metal leaf is not difficult and would give a good result. It looks like there was also some gold over the red strip, sometimes a red base layer is used before applying gold leaf to give it a richer tone. You can buy gold leaf (real or imitation) in sheets or flakes. 

[Neofita]

Thank you so much  @wtnhighlander! As you noticed, I am a newbie so I really appreciate your help and your suggestions. I live in US now (sorry for my English!) and I will use the products you mentioned for cleaning the surface before sanding anymore. 
Still don’t know if I will do the golden part with leaves or paint. Need to compare and think about. 
Thank you again! 

[Neofita]

@JohnGthank you! Yes, this is not an European frame, but in Europe they use a red layer before applying leaves, I read this somewhere. Looks complicated to me, because I’m a beginner. But it’s interesting. Thank you for your help

[Chestnut]

Hey the only way to learn and get better is to try, maybe fail, learn from your mistakes and try again. I'd bet you can figure it out.

Unless you don't' like the look then skip it.

[Neofita]

On 12/9/2020 at 7:53 AM, Chestnut said:

Hey the only way to learn and get better is to try, maybe fail, learn from your mistakes and try again. I'd bet you can figure it out.

Unless you don't' like the look then skip it.

Thank you! I will definitely try and try again!  

[Coop]

On 12/9/2020 at 6:53 AM, Chestnut said:

Hey the only way to learn and get better is to try, maybe fail, learn from your mistakes and try again. I'd bet you can figure it out.

I found out years ago on the golf course that only perfect practice makes perfect. Kind of like trying to get good credit without any credit. I gave my clubs to a more deserving person.