Scagliola is a centuries-old process used throughout European churches, palaces, mansions, and architectural interiors to create rich decorative stone and marble effects through the use of plaster, pigments, glue, carving, and hand craftsmanship.

In this intensive five-day hands-on workshop, Ronald Layman guides students through the traditional process of creating decorative Scagliola panels from beginning to end. This is not a paint technique and it is not simply applying a finish over a surface. Students will physically build decorative stone surfaces by creating patterns, carving into plaster, filling designs with color, sanding, polishing, oiling, and waxing to reveal depth and movement within the material itself.

Students begin by studying the history and evolution of Scagliola through historic examples, visual references, and instructional handouts. A full-color Scagliola reference book is also being developed as part of the course curriculum. The class then moves into understanding traditional materials and their purpose, including proper plaster selection, dry pigments, bone glue, mixing ratios, and material preparation techniques.

Throughout the week students will create:

• One large 10″ × 14″ carved decorative Scagliola panel
• One secondary 10″ × 14″ panel divided into eight smaller decorative sections for experimentation and technique studies
• Multiple sample pieces and color studies of varying sizes based upon each student’s individual design

Students will learn:

• History and origins of Scagliola
• Study of historical examples and imagery
• Traditional and modern applications
• Materials and tool selection
• Proper plaster selection and preparation
• Dry pigments and color development
• Bone glue preparation and use
• Traditional mixing ratios
• Pattern design and layout
• Transfer and carving techniques
• Filling and color placement methods
• Surface correction techniques
• Sanding procedures
• Traditional polishing methods
• Oiling techniques for sealing
• Waxing and protective finishes
• Troubleshooting and repair techniques

Students should expect a true hands-on working environment throughout the week. Much of the course involves standing at work tables while carving, sanding, polishing, and performing detailed handwork. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended, and a back support or brace may be beneficial for those sensitive to prolonged standing or bending.

Because Scagliola is a natural material process, drying and curing times may vary. Depending on conditions, some student projects may not fully cure in time for final oiling and waxing during class hours. Complete demonstrations of all finishing stages will be provided, and students will receive materials and instructions necessary to complete any remaining finishing procedures at home if needed.

Traditional Finishes

Scagliola – Traditional Decorative Stone Making Master Course