Kölner Rapid is a specially developed adhesive designed for gilding chiseled, carved or sandblasted letters. Typical examples of use include letters on monuments, tombstones or house signs. Using the Kölner Rapid system letters can be gilded quickly and the result is a high-quality, glossy gilding that can last for many years outdoors.
To use this product, first apply the undiluted to the stone in one smooth layer. After approximately 15 minutes of drying (depending on the thickness of the Rapid layer, temperature and humidity) you can either apply a second layer of Rapid, if necessary, or start the gilding. Make sure the Rapid layer is completely dry before gilding. After the Rapid has dried, you have eight hours of open time to complete your gilding. This fast drying time combined with generous working times make this product ideal for on-site work. Also, the gold finish on tombstones is better than those gilded with traditional oil size and has even better longevity.
Kölner Rapid is available in two colours, Clear and Yellow. The yellow colour creates a perfect substrate under the gold leaf.
Note: The Kölner Rapid system is designed for use on letters only, if you wish to gild other surfaces we recommend the Kölner Instacoll system.
When using Kölner Rapid it is important to keep in mind the difference between gilded letters on standing stones and those on setting stones. On falling stones rainwater can collect on the letters causing heavier than expected weathering, resulting in a shorter lifespan of the finish compared to letters on standing stones. It is also important to allow longer drying time for the Kölner Rapid system if used on lettering on setting stones.
