The word faux finish means: fake finish. Most faux finishers
take a faux product and try to reproduce a look to fool the eye.
This technique has been done for Centuries. There many
accomplished decorative painters in the world, many can be quite convincing with the
use of just paint and glazes. We
have learned how to take faux finishing to a new level with the use
of true Italian Plasters. The advantage of this type
of plastering is durability (that will last for centuries)
and the look is more realistic than most faux finishes will ever
achieve. When we use real Italian Plasters to make our faux
stone, not only does it look real, but it also feels real.
Because we make it out of real stone not a synthetic product or
faux
plaster.
At the School of Italian Plaster you and your staff will learn
how to apply 15 different plasters using the traditional techniques
we learned in Italy. You
will learn on 6 foot easels not table tops, so you can get
the feel of a real wall. But in addition to this, you will also
learn how to carry the plasters to a new level and achieve a variety
of decorative effects. We hold advance classes at the School
to teach. In addition, every 6 to 12 months we release
a new DVD with step by step instructions on how to get breath
taking results for your portfolio. For those
of you who do not wish to take the advanced class, we will offer
the new DVD releases to all former students. This will help you
to compete in the very competitive field of faux finishing without
the expense of taking update classes. Some people like to learn
hands on, thus we offer the advance class, which will include
the DVD. In the advance class you
will learn many new techniques some of which are pictured
below.
We are always experimenting with new looks. Sometimes our inspiration
comes from the Interior Designers, pictures or just creations
from our own imagination. Other applicators from around the world
will share their new finishes with us to include on the DVD's.
When you start applying these plasters your own mind will be racing
at the possibilities. By networking our ideas together we create
a portfolio that just keeps growing.
After the class in the USA we
offer a chance to train in Italy. We do not teach
this class, but participate with a true Italian Master. While
we are there we also experience the beauty of
Milan,Venice,
Verona,
Montova
and
Florence. Seeing the authentic Italian plasters everywhere
will change your perception and expand the possibilities.
No one offers the kind of training we do in Venetian Plaster.
In fact, the Italian Masters were so impressed with our
applications of the Italian plasters, they awarded
my wife and I a free trip to Italy. We do not look at our work
as just a wall finish, but as art. It is an expression of
ones self.
We not only teach these techniques, we also apply
them. If you are having trouble with an actual job you
can contact us and we will be more than happy to offer our assistance.
Not just give advice on sample boards. Whether you are a union
plasterer, faux finisher
or thinking about a career
change. Use the plasters the Italians
ask for by name Artenova by Safra.
Below are some of the applications for the next DVD. Click on
any picture to view enlargement. We
also offer you the ability to find a certified Artenova Applicator
located near you!
