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!
The Faux School’s instructors are experienced professionals with extensive knowledge of decorative painting techniques, including faux painting, murals, and Venetian plaster. Attending a class at The Faux School can provide an opportunity to learn from experts in the field and gain valuable skills and insights
The Faux School offers a range of classes and workshops that provide hands-on experience with different decorative painting techniques. This can be especially valuable for individuals who prefer to learn by doing, rather than just reading or watching tutorials online.
Even for individuals who are not pursuing a career in decorative painting, attending a class at The Faux School can be a fun and rewarding experience that allows them to explore their creativity and learn new skills. It can also provide an opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals and to take a break from the stresses of everyday life
This hands-on, one-day workshop focuses on the traditional techniques used by ancient craftsmen, as taught to Ronald, your instructor, in Venice by a former instructor of the now-closed Accademia di Belle Arti di Venezia.
Frederick, MD
March 6, 2025
Our one-day intensive workshop on mastering Bernini Marmorino Italian Lime Plaster. Renowned for its elegance, durability, and versatility, this traditional marmorino offers a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality.
.Learn the history and craftsmanship behind this luxurious material, inspired by the timeless beauty of travertine stone from the Tivoli region of Italy
Frederick, MD
TBA
Thios 3-day hands on workshop covers tradtional and modern techniques using lime grasello, marmorino , travertino, Luminoso, lime paint and much more,
Frederick, MD
March 3-5, 2025
This 3-day hands on program covers layering adnd blending of various lime plasters, stencils and layered stencils and much mre, we do not cover any basics in this workshop
Frederick, MD
March 6-8, 2025
Las Vegas, NV
TBA
This 5-day course will focus on the the traditional technique of applying marmorino, from learning how to properly rnder a wall through finishing soap.
Frederick, MD
TBA
Las Vegas, NV
TBA
This one-week intensive course offers an in-depth exploration into the art and science of faux woodgraining, designed for both beginners and seasoned professionals. The course combines hands-on practice with theoretical knowledge, mirroring the rigor and depth of a university-level program. Through guided instruction and real-time application, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of woodgraining techniques, surface preparation, and the use of specialized materials. (read more)
Building upon the foundations established in Level 1, this advanced course delves into the intricate world of complex woodgrain patterns. Over one intensive week, students will deepen their expertise by learning how to replicate some of the most sophisticated and challenging wood species, enhancing their faux finishing portfolio with realistic textures and nuanced detailing. This course is tailored for those looking to elevate their skillset, with a focus on precision, artistry, and advanced techniques.
Frederick, MD
March 24-26, 2025
Las Vegas, NV
April 7-9, 2025
Frederick, MD
TBA
Las Vegas, NV
TBA
This one-week introductory course is designed for those interested in the basics of faux woodgraining and marble techniques, with a special focus on drifted and veined marbles. Perfect for beginners, this immersive class offers a hands-on eThis advanced one-week course is designed for experienced faux finishers looking to elevate their marbleizing skills by mastering the intricate and highly detailed Breche styles. Breche marble, with its complex and fractured appearance, requires a high level of precision and artistry. Students will explore a variety of Breche marbles, learning advanced techniques to create realistic, high-end finishes that replicate the dramatic, broken veining patterns characteristic of this style. This course provides a deep dive into creating the look of fragmented stones with stunning accuracy.
This advanced one-week course is designed for experienced faux finishers looking to elevate their marbleizing skills by mastering the intricate and highly detailed Breche styles. Breche marble, with its complex and fractured appearance, requires a high level of precision and artistry. Students will explore a variety of Breche marbles, learning advanced techniques to create realistic, high-end finishes that replicate the dramatic, broken veining patterns characteristic of this style. This course provides a deep dive into creating the look of fragmented stones with stunning accuracy.
Frederick, MD
March 27-31, 2025
Las Vegas, NV
Frederick, MD
Discover the art of Scagliola, a timeless technique that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design in our exclusive beginner’s course. This three-day immersive experience will introduce you to the intricate world of Scagliola, as you learn the secrets of this ancient art form. From tables, columns and its many other uses
Frederick, MD
TBA
Las Vegas, NV
This 5-day workshop teaches 22 techniques to ive you a foundation in the craft. We cover glazes &and patinas, grasello, marmorino, travertino, mahogany, oak and carrea marble as well as cover information on setting up a portfolio, marketing and how to price projects.
Frederick, MD
October 21-25 2024
March 10-14, 2025
Las Vegas, NV
Details will be posted November 15, 2024 July 21-25, 2025
Details pocting November 15, 2024
August 4-8, 2025
I have always been deeply passionate about the art of decorative painting. The intricate details, the careful craftsmanship, and the sheer beauty of the finished product have always captivated me. And yet, as I looked around at the world of decorative painting, I realized that something was missing.
There were plenty of people who were interested in learning this ancient craft, but few who truly understood the dedication, the precision, and the artistry required to create truly exceptional decorative painting. And so, I decided to take matters into my own hands.
It all started with an invitation to a business card exchange. I hadn’t planned to attend, but as a first-time guest, I figured it was worth checking out. Little did I know, that decision would lead to one of the most creative projects I’ve ever tackled. As I mingled and introduced myself to new faces,…
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