This five-day, 35-hour course immerses participants in the art of painted imitation marble, equipping them with the techniques and skills needed to create stunningly realistic marble finishes using paint. Through a combination of in-depth lectures, detailed demonstrations, and extensive hands-on practice, students will master the fundamentals of color theory, paint mixing, brushwork, and the art of creating a variety of marble patterns and textures.

Day 1: Introduction to Marble Imitation Painting

The course begins with an introduction to the rich history and modern applications of painted imitation marble. Students will explore the origins of the technique and its use in interior design, furniture production, and decorative arts. The instructor will also provide a comprehensive overview of the essential tools and materials, including various types of paints, brushes, and mixing mediums.

Hands-on practice will start with basic techniques, focusing on brush control, blending, and shading. Students will work on their 2×4 foot study panels, starting with a simple marble pattern, using a limited color palette to understand the basics of building up layers of paint to achieve depth and dimension.

Day 2: Advanced Techniques in Marble Imitation

Building on the foundational skills learned on Day 1, students will delve into more advanced techniques for creating realistic marble finishes. The instructor will demonstrate methods for replicating specific types of marble, such as veined marble, Portor, Rouge Languedoc, sea green, and yellow sienna.

Participants will practice these techniques on their study panels, experimenting with different colors and brushes to achieve a variety of marble effects. The focus will be on generalities, glazes, palettes, and learning how to use specific tools and brushstrokes. The instructor will offer personalized feedback and share professional tips and tricks to help students refine their skills.

Day 3: Real-World Applications and Creative Exploration

Day 3 will focus on applying marble imitation techniques to real-world objects and surfaces. Students will learn how to create marble finishes on architectural details, such as columns or mantels, and on furniture pieces. The day will include instruction on using glazes and other finishing techniques to enhance the depth and luster of their work.

In addition to practicing the studied pieces, students will explore the structure of the marbles, their colors, effects, and crystallization. Creative applications will be encouraged, broadening the artistic repertoire of each participant.

Day 4: Project Development and Execution

Day 4 is dedicated to developing and executing individual projects. Students will choose a project—whether a piece of furniture, an architectural element, or a decorative panel—and apply the skills they’ve learned to create a complete marble imitation finish. The instructor will guide students on project planning, color selection, and tehnique execution, ensuring that each student has the support needed to successfully complete their project.

Day 5: Final Touches, Critique, and Course Conclusion

The final day will be spent refining and completing individual projects. Students will apply finishing touches, such as glazing, overglaze, and crystallization, to enhance the realism and durability of their work. The course will conclude with a group critique, where students will present their projects and receive constructive feedback from the instructor and peers.

The instructor will also lead a wrap-up discussion, summarizing the key concepts and techniques covered during the course. Participants will leave with a comprehensive understanding of the art of painted imitation marble and the confidence to apply their skills to future projects.

Materials and Equipment:

The course fee includes all necessary materials and equipment, such as high-quality paint brushes, a wide selection of paint colors, mixing mediums, and other supplies. Each student will also be provided with 2×4 foot study panels to practice and perfect their techniques. Students are encouraged to bring their own protective clothing and aprons.

Course Content Overview:

Preparing the substrates (theory)
Tool care and maintenance
Proper use of various tools (brushes, steel combs, comté crayons, etc.)|
Study of various wood species (growth, structure, etc.)
Techniques for realistic wood graining

Study of different types of marble (formation, patterns, etc.)
|Techniques for realistic marble finishes
Preparation and use of various glazes (oil-based, water-based)
Groundwork, overglaze, and crystallization techniques
Protecting your work

Training Method and Certification:
Theoretical explanations and demonstrations are provided daily.
Immediate hands-on practice through daily exercises.
Students create individual panels of graining and marbling, contributing to a portfolio.
The instructor follows each student’s progress on a daily basis.
Upon completion of the course, students receive a Certificate from the school.

Who is this for?

This course is open to all levels, from beginners to more advanced practitioners. Participants will gain valuable skills whether they are new to the craft or seeking to refine their expertise.
50% ($800.00, total- $1600.00) deposit is due upon registration to secure your seat, the balance is due the first day of the workshop

Course includes a complete tool kit that is yours to take homem practice and for your projects, not all tools are equal, our tools will last you for years, ask ron, he still has and uses his badger brush from 20 years ago. The kits will be at your workstation when you arrive.

trompe l’oeil painting

The Art of Painted Imitation Marble: Five-Day Intensive Course