301-668-5110

Mon-Fri 08:00 am – 5:00pm


Begin or continue journey into the authentic venetian plasters today!

At The Faux School, we’re a haven for creativity and craftsmanship. Led by founder and core instructor Ronald Layman, whose skills have been passed
down through four generations and refined by the world’s finest craftsmen, we’re proud to offer North America’s premier classes in Italian “Venetian”
plaster, murals, wood graining, imitation marble, and more. Whether you’re an experienced artisan or an aspiring enthusiast, our classes are your
gateway to a world where traditional techniques meet contemporary vision. Join us to discover the art of decorative design and embark on a journey
where every day is an opportunity to create something truly extraordinary. Welcome to The Faux School!

Upcoming training classes

Learn valuable skills

Venetian plastering is a highly sought-after skill that can add value to your career or business. By taking a class, you can learn the techniques and best practices for creating beautiful, durable plaster finishes that can transform any space.

Hands-On

Venetian plastering is an art form that requires practice and experience to master. By taking a class, you can get hands-on experience working with the materials and tools, which can help you develop the skills and confidence you need to create stunning finishes on your own.

expand your knowledge

Venetian plastering is a complex and nuanced process that involves many different factors, from selecting the right materials to applying the plaster in the right way. By taking a class, you can expand your knowledge and understanding of the plastering process, including the xraftsmanship behind it, which can help you create more sophisticated and effective finishes.

cOURSES

Currently, we are offering three courses using Bernini lime plasters, quarried and packaged in Venice, Italy

Authentic Italian lime plaster 3-Day Course

A 3-day hands-on Bernini authentic Italian plaster class is an opportunity like no other. This intensive workshop is led by master craftsman Ronald Layman, who has studied this ancient craft in the heart of Italy, where he has honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the art of Italian plastering.

This class is not just about learning the technical aspects of grasello, marmorino, travertino, both wet and dry mixes, lime paint, surface preparation, color mixing, product application, compression, burnings, top coat selection and application with wax and savon marseille sealer. It’s also about experiencing the rich heritage and culture of Italian craftsmanship, which has been passed down through centuries.

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to learn from a true master of the craft, as they work alongside Ronald to create their own samples of Italian plaster. They will be guided through every step of the process, from surface preparation and color mixing to product application and compression. They will also learn about the use of lime paint, burning and topcoat selection and application with wax and savon marseille sealer.

The class will be held in a studio where all the materials are made in Italy, and this is a testament to the quality and authenticity of the products used. The class is for anyone who has a passion for craftsmanship, heritage, and a love of Italian products that have been handed down for centuries. This is not just a class, it’s an immersive experience that will leave attendees with a deep understanding and appreciation of the art of Italian plastering and the rich heritage of Italian craftsmanship.

KEY MOMENTS OVER THE CENTURIES

1st Century BC

Ancient Rome

Lime plaster, or “marmorino” as it was known, was used in ancient Rome to create a marble-like finish on walls and other surfaces. This was likely the earliest known use of lime plaster in Italy, and it set the stage for its later development.

14th Century

The Renaissance Period

During the Renaissance period, which lasted from the 14th to the 17th century, the technique of using lime plaster was refined and perfected in Venice, where it became known as “Venetian plaster.” This was a time of great artistic and cultural achievement in Italy, and the use of Venetian plaster became a hallmark of Renaissance architecture and design.

17th Century

Baroque Period

the Baroque style emerged in Italy, characterized by its ornate and elaborate designs. Lime plaster was used extensively during this period to create intricate decorative features, such as ceiling moldings, cornices, and ornamental sculptures.

20th Century

Modern Era

the use of lime plaster in Italy experienced a resurgence, particularly in the restoration of historic buildings. Architects and builders rediscovered the benefits of lime plaster, including its durability, breathability, and aesthetic qualities. Today, lime plaster continues to be used in both traditional and contemporary architecture and design throughout Italy and around the world.

instructor

Ronald Layman

As someone with a passion for generational craftsmanship that has been handed down for generations, I understand the importance of preserving traditional techniques and passing them on to future generations. That’s why I created the Mu Venetian Plaster Classes, based on my extensive training and travels in Italy and Europe.

My goal with these classes is to advance the level of craftsmanship in this beautiful art form, by sharing the traditional techniques and methods that have been perfected over centuries. I believe that by learning these techniques, we can create stunning, long-lasting plaster finishes that are truly beautiful and unique.

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