Founded in 2020 by master artisan and educator Ronald Layman, the North American School of Decorative Arts (NASODA) was created to preserve, teach, and advance the timeless traditions of decorative finishing and ornamental craftsmanship. Formerly known as The Faux School, NASODA represents the evolution of over two decades of teaching, hands-on training, and dedication to the decorative arts.
Located in Frederick, Maryland, NASODA is dedicated to educating artists, painters, designers, and craftspeople in both traditional and contemporary decorative techniques. Our workshops and professional training programs focus on authentic Old World craftsmanship, blending centuries-old European methods with modern materials and applications.
Students at NASODA receive hands-on instruction in a wide range of decorative arts disciplines, including Venetian plaster, marmorino, tadelakt, scagliola, imitation marble, faux wood graining, gilding, murals, fresco techniques, architectural finishes, and specialty surface design. Courses are designed for all skill levels — from beginners exploring decorative arts for the first time to experienced professionals seeking to refine advanced techniques.
What sets NASODA apart is its commitment to craftsmanship, historical understanding, and real-world application. Students do not simply learn decorative “effects”; they study the structure, materials, movement, layering, and artistry behind traditional finishes. Every workshop is rooted in technique, discipline, and the belief that true decorative art is both a craft and an enduring form of architectural storytelling.
In addition to instruction from Ronald Layman, NASODA regularly welcomes guest instructors and master artisans from around the world, offering students rare opportunities to study specialized techniques and international traditions directly from experienced professionals.
The North American School of Decorative Arts continues to build a community of artisans who value timeless craftsmanship, artistic integrity, and the preservation of traditional decorative arts for future generations.