Finishes for Wood and Furniture Decoration Techniques

Dates: see calendar
Times: Day 1: 9:00-13.00, and 14:00-17:00
           Day 2: 9:00-13.00, and 14:00-17:00
Hours: 14 ore
Location: Villa Palmerino, La Colonica, Via del Palmerino 6, Florence
Language: English and Italian
Cost: €488


Course Description:
In this course we cover various techniques for creating painted decoration and quality finishes on wooden surfaces, from antique to modern, with emphasis on the traditional Florentine techniques. These techniques are applicable to the decoration of frames, furniture and accessories, interior doors, cabinets and art panels. Techniques and procedures are covered starting either from raw wood or an existing finish and arriving at a finished piece. Traditional gesso grounds and modern variations are covered, as well as paints and 'patinas'. Quick and practical gilding with gold size and composition leaf is also covered. We will study approaches to composition of ornament, hand painting and stencil decoration. Participants will create sample boards and several small wooden moldings with various examples of finishes and decoration for furniture. Waxing and antiquing techniques will be discussed. Favorite examples of well loved European furniture finishes will be covered such as Shabby Chic, Gustavian, and Crème Peint.
 

Please note: This is a weekend course. For more in-depth study of this subject you may be interested in our week long courses at Villa Palmerino or our long term study programs.


Course Outline:
• learn about various primers and the preparation of wooden surfaces
• mix and use paints to create base colors and layered finishes
• make varied colour surfaces with the use of washes, rags and sponges
• observe and understand the process of design of ornament
• use stencils and explore hand painted decoration
• apply and finish composition leaf
• learn distressing and finishing techniques for furniture


Projects completed:
Wooden sample boards and moldings with examples of various finishes