No Painting Skill Required

Paint a Stunning Watercolor Landscape with Luminous Gold Finishes

Using gold techniques most painters don't know exist.

Midnight mountain watercolor landscape with luminous gold leaf moon and ridges

Imagine if you could:

  • Feel the soft drag of the brush as you lay down misty layers and watch the mountains soften into the distance.
  • Sweep crisp gold lines along mountain ridges and watch the entire piece come alive.
  • See the raised texture of the gold leaf up close and feel the difference between flat and dimensional.
  • Hold up a midnight mountain landscape you painted from scratch and feel that quiet pride when it looks surprisingly high-end.

"There's no way I could paint this."

That's the most common reaction.

The mountains, the mist, the gold.

It looks like it took years of skill.

Here's the truth: it's simpler than it looks.

This painting is built on a few core watercolor principles: layering, timing, and letting the paint do most of the work.

You paint one layer. Wait for it to dry. Then paint the next.

That's how you get depth, mist, and clean colors instead of mud.

Artist applying watercolor layers to a mountain landscape

And the gold effect? Easier than it seems.

You can find the gold leaf in most craft stores or online.

A pack of them costs around $10.

And the process?

You brush glue where you want the gold.

You wait for it to become tacky.

Then you lay a sheet of gold leaf on top, press it down gently, and brush away the excess.

The gold stays only where the glue was.

That glowing moon?

It's a circle of glue with gold leaf pressed over it.

The fine golden lines along the ridges?

Same idea, just with a thinner brush.

Already tried gold leaf?

You might have encountered:

  • sheets sticking to your fingers,
  • tearing before you can place them,
  • adhesive that's too wet or too dry, and
  • gold landing everywhere except where you want it.

I've been through all of it.

The difference comes down to small details: which glue, which brush, how long to wait before placing, how long to wait before brushing.

After years of testing, I've dialed in the exact sequence and tools that avoid every one of those issues.

No wasted sheets.

No guesswork.

No mess.

Just clean, luminous gold.

Meet the "golden" artist

Claire Ashford, watercolor artist

Hi. I'm Claire Ashford, a watercolor artist specializing in gold leaf and gold foil techniques, based in Vancouver, Canada.

I've been working with gold leaf for over 10 years. What started as an experiment on one painting turned into an obsession with understanding exactly how gold leaf behaves and how to make it work every time. Along the way, I picked up every gold medium I could find: metallic paints, gold markers, gold foil. Each one has its place, but gold leaf is where I live.

I've spent the last 3 years teaching these techniques to complete beginners. Hundreds of students later, the moment that never gets old is watching someone peel back their first clean sheet of gold leaf and realize they actually did it.

I created this course because gold doesn't have to be frustrating. I made every mistake, tested every material, and built the step-by-step process I wish someone had handed me on day one.

For the first time ever! Introducing…

Paint a Stunning Watercolor Landscape with Luminous Gold Finishes

A course where you'll learn how to paint a midnight mountain watercolor step-by-step and elevate it with radiant gold leaf highlights.

Course package: video tutorials, materials checklist, mobile access, lifetime access

Module 1

The complete setup checklist (no guessing, no overbuying)

We'll set up your workspace and materials for both the watercolor painting and the gold leaf finish — so you're not guessing, overbuying, or getting stuck halfway through.

Module 1: Complete setup checklist
  • The complete watercolor beginner checklist: paper, brushes, paints, and the exact basics you need for clean washes.
  • The gold leaf kit checklist: what to buy (and what to skip) so your leaf sticks cleanly instead of turning into chaos.
  • The budget options (if you don't want to start with premium supplies) that still give a beautiful result.
  • The "don't waste money" list: the most common supply mistakes that look helpful… but don't change the result.

Module 2

Trace the template + lock in the Midnight Mountain foundation (sky + first mountain layer)

We'll trace the template, paint the night sky, and lay your first mountain layer so the scene already looks cinematic before we add depth or gold.

Module 2: Trace the template and paint the foundation
  • Trace the included template in minutes so proportions look right from the start.
  • The paint-around-the-moon method to keep the circle clean for gold leaf later.
  • A smooth night-sky wash that sets the mood without streaks or patchiness.
  • Your first background mountain layer (light, misty, and simple) so the landscape starts reading immediately.
  • The one thing to avoid while layers are drying so you don't accidentally create mud.
  • Optional: masking-fluid method for an even cleaner moon edge (only if you already have it).

Module 3

Finish the painting base (depth + atmosphere + reflection)

By the end of this module, your Midnight Mountain scene is fully painted and ready for gold — clean depth, misty atmosphere, and a reflection that looks intentional (not fussy).

Module 3: Finish the painting base with depth and atmosphere
  • The "layer order" that makes the mountains read as true distance (so nothing blends into one flat shape).
  • The mist + atmosphere moves that keep the scene soft without overworking your paper.
  • A beginner-friendly reflection method that looks realistic without perfect symmetry.
  • How to simplify water texture so it feels calm and cinematic (instead of busy).
  • The final contrast decisions that make the base painting look finished before any gold is added.
  • What needs to be fully dry (and how to tell) so the gold leaf step goes smoothly next.

Module 4

Gold leaf moon (no chaos, no wasted sheets)

This is the "main event." You'll apply the gold leaf moon in a way that looks clean, luminous, and intentional — without random sticking, tearing, or patchy coverage.

Module 4: Gold leaf moon application
  • The simple setup that stops gold leaf from sticking to everything except your painting.
  • The "tacky timing" checkpoint so the leaf grabs cleanly (not too wet, not too dry).
  • How to apply the leaf so it sticks only where you want it — and doesn't grab random areas.
  • The clean removal method that won't smear adhesive or shred the edges.
  • What to do if you get patchiness (the quick fix that still looks premium).
  • The reveal moment: lifting away the excess so the moon looks crisp and high-end.

Module 5

Gold details + finishing touches (make it look premium)

This is where your painting goes from "beautiful" to "wow." You'll add crisp gold accents, refine edges, and finish it in a way that keeps the gold looking luminous.

Module 5: Gold details and finishing touches
  • Sweep crisp gold ridge lines that make the entire piece come alive.
  • The edge-cleanup moves that make gold look polished (not ragged or "crafty").
  • How to add subtle sparkle / highlight accents without making the piece look busy.
  • The finishing decision that preserves the gold's shine (so it stays luminous).
  • Final polish checklist so your painting looks "done" and display-worthy.
  • How to photograph it so the gold actually shows up and looks premium.

A Special Invitation, For You

This entire course…

That takes you from a blank page to a finished midnight mountain watercolor with luminous gold leaf highlights…

Will be sold for $119.

But you won't be paying anything close to that today.

The page you're seeing right now is a beta test.

I'm offering this at a reduced price to a limited number of students to see how things go before I scale up.

Private watercolor workshops can cost $60 or more per hour.

And most don't even touch gold leaf techniques.

This course gives you over 3 hours of step-by-step instruction you can follow at your own pace.

You won't need to pay workshop prices.

You won't even need to spend $119.

You can get everything we've discussed, plus some wonderful bonuses, for $47.

Close-up of gold leaf being applied to a watercolor mountain painting

Any lower and I won't be able to cover the cost of advertising.

If the test shows that I can handle the volume, I'll start selling it at $97. If not, I may pull this page off the internet altogether. Either way, I can't guarantee this price will last.

This is a ONE-TIME PURCHASE.

There are NO recurring charges. EVER.

And you will have access to everything. LIFETIME ACCESS FOREVER.

With 24/7, online access.

Go through it at your own pace, and on your own time.

Click the button below, if the next page doesn't load… I'm sorry, but the deal has ended.

Normally $119

Now Only $47

One-time payment.
Lifetime access.

Get Lifetime Access Now
Secure Payment
Visa, American Express, MasterCard, PayPal, Apple Pay

P.S. If the next page doesn't load… I'm sorry, but the deal has ended!

If you're still unsure…

You can try it RISK-FREE with…

My 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

100% Money Back Guaranteed

You don't have to make the final decision today.

I want you to experience the joy of watercoloring and the magic of gold leaf without any worries.

You can join the course right now and get full access to every single lesson.

Watch the lessons.

Trace the template.

Paint the mountain layers.

Apply the stunning gold leaf.

Take your time and try the course for 30 days risk-free.

If at any point you feel it's not for you, just send an email to [email TODO], and you'll get 100% of your money back within 24 hours.

NO QUESTIONS ASKED.

NO HASSLE.

NO RISK.

I made this course to get luminous gold leaf paintings into the hands of people who never thought they could. And I'm confident it will do exactly that.

You've got 30 full days to see for yourself.

But, there's more… my extra gift for you!

Get 3 Golden Bonuses When You Join Today

Bonus 1

Apply the gold leaf technique on any painting

Once you've done it once, you'll start seeing where gold belongs everywhere. This bonus shows you how to repeat the look confidently on new pieces.

Bonus 1: Apply gold leaf on any painting
  • The easiest way to "spot the highlight areas" that look premium in gold.
  • How to adapt the same steps to different shapes (not just a moon).
  • The 3 places beginners add gold that instantly makes a painting look busy (and what to do instead).
  • A simple "gold placement rule" that keeps your accents tasteful and intentional.

Bonus 2

Additional gold techniques (and when to use which)

We learned how to use gold leaf in the course, and there are additional tools that also provide gold effects.

Bonus 2: Additional gold techniques
  • Metallic paint vs gold leaf vs marker: what each one is best at.
  • When a marker gives you cleaner thin lines than a gold leaf ever will.
  • When metallic paint beats leaf for speed (without looking "crafty").
  • The most common mistake that makes metallics look dull, and the fix.

Bonus 3

A professional painter's guide to choosing color pairings for gold

Some paintings make gold look jaw-dropping, and some make it disappear. This bonus shows you how to choose subjects and palettes that make gold pop.

Bonus 3: Color pairings for gold
  • The color palettes that create the strongest gold contrast (and which ones mute it).
  • The easiest subject types for gold accents (even if you're a beginner).
  • How to choose background values so gold reads luminous, not muddy.
  • Quick "test swatches" you can do before committing gold to a finished piece.

This is everything you're getting if you join right now:

Complete course package with bonuses: video tutorials, materials checklist, 3 bonuses, mobile access, lifetime access
  • Instant access to the Paint a Stunning Watercolor Landscape with Luminous Gold Finishes Course with step-by-step instructions $119
  • Lifetime membership access — get access to all course features in one place with all future updates at no additional cost Included
  • Detailed materials list for all the supplies you'll need Included
  • Video, audio, and text formats of the course for you to learn no matter where you are Included
  • 100% Risk-Free Money-Back Guarantee Included

Plus Three Incredible Bonuses:

  • Bonus 1: Apply the gold leaf technique on any painting $22
  • Bonus 2: Additional gold techniques (and when to use which) $25
  • Bonus 3: A professional painter's guide to choosing color pairings for gold $27
Total Value $193

Get started for a one-time payment of…

Normally $119

Now Only $47

One-time payment.
Lifetime access.

Get Lifetime Access Now
Secure Payment
Visa, American Express, MasterCard, PayPal, Apple Pay

P.S. If the next page doesn't load… I'm sorry, but the deal has ended!

FAQ

I've never painted before. Is this course for me?
Yes. This course was designed with complete beginners in mind. You don't need any prior experience with watercolor or gold leaf. Every step is broken down clearly so you can follow along at your own pace.
Do I need to be "artistic" or have natural talent?
Not at all. This painting is built on a simple, repeatable process: layer, wait, layer again. The gold leaf technique is the same idea. Glue, wait, press, brush. If you can follow steps, you can do this.
Is the gold leaf hard to find or expensive?
Nope. A pack of 100 gold leaf sheets costs around $10 and you can find them at most craft stores or online. The rest of the materials are basic watercolor supplies. I'll give you a full checklist so you know exactly what to get and where to get it.
How much will all the materials cost?
You can get everything you need for under $40 total. And if you already have basic watercolor supplies, it will be even less. The course includes a complete materials list with budget-friendly options.
I'm 60+, can I do this?
Yes, there is no age requirement for this course. I have students ranging from 20 to 80 years old. The techniques are gentle, the pace is yours, and the steps are clear. If you can hold a brush, you can do this.
I don't have much free time. Is that a problem?
Not at all. The course is broken into short, focused lessons. You can work through it over a weekend or spread it out over a few weeks. There is no deadline and no pressure.
When does the course start?
Right away. The moment you sign up, you get instant access to all the lessons. No waiting, no scheduled start date.
How long do I have access to the course?
Forever. Once you enroll, you have lifetime access to everything. You can rewatch any lesson as many times as you want, from any device.
Is the $47 a one-time payment?
Yes. This is a one-time purchase. No subscriptions, no hidden fees, no recurring charges. You pay once and the course is yours forever.
What happens after I buy?
You will receive an email within minutes with simple instructions on how to access the course. From there, you can start the first lesson right away.
What if I'm not happy with the course?
Just send an email to [email] within 30 days of your purchase and you'll get 100% of your money back. No questions asked.
Is it safe to purchase here?
Yes. Your payment is processed through a secure, encrypted checkout. Your private information is never shared with anyone. And you're always protected by the 30-day money-back guarantee.

In Summary, here's everything you will get:

Complete course package with bonuses: video tutorials, materials checklist, 3 bonuses, mobile access, lifetime access
  • Instant access to the Paint a Stunning Watercolor Landscape with Luminous Gold Finishes Course with step-by-step instructions ($119 value)
  • Lifetime membership access — get access to all course features in one place with all future updates at no additional cost
  • Detailed materials list for all the supplies you'll need
  • Video, audio, and text formats of the course for you to learn no matter where you are
  • 100% Risk-Free Money-Back Guarantee

Plus Three Incredible Bonuses:

  • Bonus 1: Apply the gold leaf technique on any painting ($22 value)
  • Bonus 2: Additional gold techniques (and when to use which) ($25 value)
  • Bonus 3: A professional painter's guide to choosing color pairings for gold ($27 value)

Total Value: $193

Get started for a one-time payment of…

Normally $119

Now Only $47

One-time payment.
Lifetime access.

Get Lifetime Access Now
Secure Payment
Visa, American Express, MasterCard, PayPal, Apple Pay

P.S. If the next page doesn't load… I'm sorry, but the deal has ended!