Step into the world of authentic Italian craftsmanship with Venetian Plaster 101, a one-day intensive workshop taught by Ronald Layman. Using Grasello di Calce from Bernini Italian Lime Plasters, imported directly from just outside Venice, Italy, this course introduces students to the timeless art of Venetian plastering.

Whether you are a painter, designer, decorative artist, or an absolute beginner with a love for beautiful finishes, this course is your perfect starting point. You will learn the fundamentals of surface preparation, tool handling, and application techniques that have been refined over centuries—skills that give you the confidence to move on to more advanced training.

What We Cover
History & Heritage

Introduction to the tradition of Venetian plaster and the significance of Grasello.
Understanding why lime plasters have endured for centuries in architecture and design.

2. Materials & Tools

Overview of authentic Italian lime plasters: composition, properties, and advantages.
Selecting the right trowels, spatulas, and blades.
Tool care and maintenance for professional results.

3. Surface Preparation

Evaluating substrates and preparing surfaces for plaster application.
Primers, base coats, and the role of texture and adhesion.

4. Base Coating & Color Mixing

Application of the first coat with attention to smoothness and uniformity.
Introduction to natural pigments and tinting methods.
Hands-on color mixing to achieve rich, vibrant tones.

5. Application Techniques

Layering techniques for depth and translucency.
Traditional hand movements, strokes, and pressure control.
Building up the plaster with precision and artistry.

6. Burnishing & Waxing

Polishing the plaster to achieve depth, glow, and natural movement.
Introduction to traditional beeswax and modern protective waxes.
How waxing enhances longevity and sheen.

7. Hands-On Practice

Students create their own sample boards.
Individual guidance from Ronald Layman to refine technique.

8. Stepping Stone to Mastery

How this foundation sets the stage for advanced techniques such as Marmorino, Travertino, Tadelakt, and complex marble/stone imitations.
Pathways to continuing education with in-depth multi-day courses.
Why This Course?

Authenticity: You’ll train with real Italian lime plaster, not imitations.
Expert Guidance: Learn directly from Ronald Layman, a fourth-generation decorative artist who studied the craft in Italy.
Confidence: By the end of the day, you’ll not only have sample boards to showcase your work but also the skills and understanding to apply Grasello in your own projects.

Perfect for: Artists, decorative painters, contractors, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone curious about traditional European plaster finishes.
Duration: 1 full day (7 hours, including breaks).
Provided: All materials, tools for class use, and sample boards to take home.
Next Step: Graduates are encouraged to continue with Ronald’s advanced 3-day and 5-day courses to master higher-level techniques and more complex finishes.

Deposit due upon registration, balance is due upon arrival

9:00 am – 4:30pm
$300.00

If you register and can not attend the class, your funds may be used towards a diffrent class or date.

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Venetian Plaster 101