My boyfriend is about to finish up his 1 1/2 year sentence in prison (non-violent offense, marijuana) . While he was in, he learned calligraphy and gilding from a nun who ministered to the inmates. Apparently, he has real talent at it and has done numerous signs for the institution. His artwork is prized amongst the guards too.
He wants to make a good start at his life upon release and already has a good job. He says that his gilding/leaf work is an important meditative thing for his life now, and asked if I could assemble a kit so he can have it when he's released (next month)
Can anyone suggest what sort of tools and materials he will need? I've already purchased some 24K gold leaves (2 booklets of 25 each). He says he needs some "valim" sheets to make picture manuscripts? Does anyone know what this is?
Also, does anyone know what tools he will need for gold leafing and caligraphy?
I can't wait to see him again and start new- I want him to have the things he will need.
Any help will be greatly appreciated. Sorry my questions don't have much knowledge behind them, but the associate at the local chain craft store knew nothing about this, and could only direct me to a beginners calligraphy kit that seemed pretty junky.
Oh yeah, just to add- I bought these gold leaves for him on ebay. Does anyone know if they are OK?