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Some
of our faux painting class testimonials
From skeptic to artist: Aerin
Kaiser did great in faux painting class but doubted if it would apply to
her actual walls at home. With her newfound skills and some faith she surprised
herself, but not us, by winning the"Faux Finishes Category" of our "2003
Excellence in Decorative Artistry Competition"
I have never considered myself to
be talented or artistic when it comes to faux painting, but I have been
interested in it for years, reading every instructional book I could get
my hands on. I've attempted many different techniques but my projects never
seemed to turn out to be quite as easy as the books claimed they would
be. |
I found the Decorative Arts Center
website about six months ago and was interested immediately, but was feeling
that maybe faux painting required more talent than I had. I'm a mother
of three who enjoys painting in my spare time. I wasn't completely convinced
that faux finishing could be taught in the classroom but decided to attend.
I couldn't believe how smoothly things went in class. I was still feeling
a little skeptical, sure that I would get home to my massive blank walls
only to find it wasn't that easy after all. I am still amazed and shocked
at how well my first project turned out, corners, ceiling and all. Everything
Brian taught in class worked, and made even more sense at home. I still
don't consider myself to be especially talented or gifted, but I know that
with the skills I learned I could be successful in my own faux painting
business and am keeping an open mind for the future. I feel so fortunate
to have found this school, I can't thank you enough for sharing your secrets
and incredible talent, Brian!
Aerin Kaiser, Homeowner, Missouri |
Sabrina is the 2003 winner of
the "Venetian Plaster Category" & also entered this faux sky painting.
"After searching the net for a reputable
school, I was most impressed with the Decorative Arts Center. Brian's years
of experience and the fact that I could bring home so many new samples
sold me! |
The comfortable,
intimate class size and the clear instruction of the techniques, encouraging
us to develop our own "signature" style, lit a fire in me. We worked eagerly,
Brian was always encouraging, and our final illusions in paint and plaster
were surprising.
After adding the Venetian Plaster
styles to my new faux boards I felt I had that "edge" to take back to clients.
In the six months since taking classes I have actually "wowed" them with
my new offering and increased my business. Besides adding to my list of
patrons homes and businesses, I've done my first Parade of Homes. It's
great being in such demand that I can pick the best jobs and people are
willing to wait for me!"
Sabrina Grisier, "The Paper Dolls",
Ohio |
Louie and his wife operate a
well established company of 19 years. He specializes in high end residential
and ecclesiastical (churches) painting. Above is his work in a district
county judge's home.
"Painting is not new to me, as I'm
in my 19th year of being a professional painter and wallpaper hanger. What
is new to me is the word "artist".
After selling a few basic finishes
and eventually becoming bored with them, I decided to go to a school to
learn more faux finishes. |
I wanted a school where the main
instructor taught the class, not some student assistant. I also wanted
a class that would allow me to purchase the materials that I needed from
my usual sources so I wouldn't be tied to a company or poduct to purchase
all of my supplies. The Decorative Arts Center met those needs.
Prior to attending, I wouldn't apply
any faux finish without having done them in my own home first. I now have
the confidence, from what I've learned, to sell the finish from the sample
I created and to succeed at the first attempt. My customers call me an
artist now.
Business is still running at a very
brisk pace and I already have over three months booked up this year. I
took Brian's advice and moved my rates up without losing a bid. I've taken
almost five weeks of vacation which I almost felt guilty about (I said
"almost")".
Louie Born, Countryside Painting,
Minnesota |
Karen attended with her neighbor
and fellow artisan, Karan West. Both received Honorable Mentions in our
2003 competition.
Searching on the internet for a school
on faux finishes, it never occured to me that I was making a career change.
I already had a business, I was a successful graphic designer developing
websites and publications for clients. If I was so successful, why was
I researching faux finishes? |
Faux painting
was something I had experimented on with my home and friends homes. My
frustration, and the reason for my search, was that what I visualized and
painted on the wall were never the same. My results were "acceptable" but,
when I considered the expense of all the "special tools and materials,
should have been fantastic.
I enrolled in the Decorative Arts
Center and quickly learned several techniques that allowed my average walls
to become works of art. Not only do the rooms look like I visualized, but
the need for expensive materials is no longer necessary.
My career focus has changed as the
requests to paint the homes of others increases. The New Year brings new
opportunities as I faux finish for real cash".
Karen Wisch, "GB Designs", Missouri |
Well here I am. I have been so busy
lately that I have not even had time to get my portfolio complete. Since
your class I have made about 14k. Ok not to brag. Your class is what got
the contract signed. What counted the most was the way I set up my invoice.
I have had no one try to take anything off the price because they really
liked the professionalism. In almost all of my meetings with the homeowners
I got the same comment
"you are the first to ...". I did
what you taught me.
Crystal Queen, Texas |
Brian, How are you? I wanted
to let you know that I opened my business this month, started advertising,
etc. and just this week I got a couple of people call me about projects.
After your class, I took a couple of classes closer to home (I was able
to drive instead of flying), but the teaching style and atmosphere don't
even compare with yours. I would love to be able to take your murals class.(and
she did)
Monika Cornell, Connecticut |
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