House of Faux

“ The Alchemist's Three”

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 23:32:00 +0000

Metals, Methods and Magic X Three!

Join Sarasota School for one of it’s most unique and exciting workshops ever! Three top instructors teaching together to give you a truly magical experience! Gary Lord, Barb Skivington, and Donna Phelps join together, in one workshop, to share with you their unique creative perspectives on fabulous, new, and exclusive FEI Gold Label products and finishing methods of application:

Luna™, Metallic and Deep Color SharkSkin™,

Metallic Hi-Hide Bases, & StoneDecor™,

And bonus "fresh out of the cauldron" Rock-Kote Crème!

Alchemists have explored the wonders and excitement of metalizing for hundreds of years. Begin your mystical journey into alchemic theory as you learn to work with FEI's new "SharkSkin Super-Hide Metallics™! These elemental products enhance FEI’s complex metallic finishes by utilizing a new approach which makes finishing effects easier to control with much more dramatically decorative results. Smooth Finish Super-Hide Metallics™ may be used as a “base metal” background or to transform other elements by adding rich metallic color.

Explore the wonderful, subtle sparkle and decorative free-form effects of the revolutionary new product, "Luna™. Infinite possibilities exist in the use of this exciting new element in the FEI family of fabulous, easy to use products. Also featured in this intense workshop will be FEI's new, "real marble" material, "StoneDecor™. With the hardness of an epoxy and the beauty of marble, this is an excellent product to create custom countertops, floors, table tops, exterior columns and much more! Students in this workshop will be among the first to see, in action, the brand new element in the Rock-Kote line, Rock-Kote Crème—the faux world’s first tintable, trowel-on, water based epoxy top coat!

It's a tough market out there, and this newly created workshop will give you the edge for success and the opportunity to learning both brushed, sprayed, and troweled techniques from three masters of the trade. Re-ignite your decorative spirit and become a modern-day Alchemist.

Sign up today! This limited engagement, special format workshop will only be taught three times—one time only at each of the three instructors facilities! Call today to reserve your space! Discounts, coupons, or credits may not be applied to this one time only workshop. Workshop Fee $895.00

Pre-requisite: Designer Wall Finishes™ I or higher

Participation in an “Alchemist Workshop” at a Licensed Faux Effects Training Center is required to purchase these products.

Call 1-888-454-3289 to register, 50% deposit required to register due 30 days in advance with Balance due 14 days prior to workshop start date. Workshop hours 9:30 to 5:30. Complimentary continental breakfast and snacks provided. All supplies furnished. Airfare and accommodations not included. Special hotel rates have been secured for workshop attendants. Only $49.95 per night at Comfort Inn and Days Inn in Sarasota only 1 mile from the school!

*Sarasota School of Faux & Architectural Finishing does not make any warranty or representation that the finishes, products or results advertised will meet your individual requirements or expectations. Every effort is made to conduct all Sarasota School of Faux & Architectural Finishing Workshops as advertised; however, the products and finishes taught may vary.

Copyright© 2010, Sarasota School of Faux & Architectural Finishing. All Rights Reserved. The reproduction of any part of this website without Sarasota School of Faux & Architectural Finishing express written permission is strictly prohibited.

SARASOTA SCHOOL OF FAUX & ARCHITECTURAL FINISHING

Website: www.sarasotafauxfx.com

The Keys to Color

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:24:00 +0000

Dean Sickler book
The Keys To Color: A Decorator's Handbook for coloring paints, plasters and glazes.

Now available on Amazon.com

This book is for decorators. inspired amateurs, working painters and artisans who seek to enhance their knowledge of color as it is used over large areas like walls and ceilings. Discover a different approach to color than that written for artists. Although the rules of color stay the same, the goals are quite different - new methods have to be learned. Learn how to make your own colors, match existing colors and fix them if they are wrong. Begin by learning how to see colors and how to understand why they act the way they do. Delve into advanced topics like pigment qualities, options and choices to the way pigments react with each other and why. This is the first time in eighty years that practical color theory has been addressed for architecture. Many of the materials used for interior design like paint, plasters, glazes and stains are explained in detail. Develop an understanding of advanced color topics like constructing complex and full-spectrum colors, working with metallic and mica paints, and using color in interior design.

From the Back Cover

The Keys To Color is the first book in eighty years to address practical color theory for interior design and architecture. In simple, easy-to-understand language, discover a different approach to color.

Learn from a top-rated instructor how to make your own colors, match existing colors and color-correct them as needed - vital skills for the professional designer and decorative painter. Learn how to see colors and understand why they act the way they do. Delve into advanced topics like using complements to adjust color, working with metallics and micas, and creating complex and full spectrum colors.

Although the rules of color stay the same for artists and designers, the goals are quite different and new methods are offered for professionals and inspired amateurs. An essential book for those working with color in decorating schemes.

Click here to purchase the book.

Beautiful Subways

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 11:58:00 +0000

Platform of T-Centralen station on the Blue Line

One of the many optical illusions at Bayview station by artist Panya Clark Espinal.

Volkstheater station with mosaic friezes by Anton Lehmden.

Concourse level of Imam Khomeini interchange station

Rinkeby station built in 1975 on the Blue Line with gold mosaics, paintings, and sculptures.

Platform of Avtovo station.

Lut Gielen

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 11:51:00 +0000

A well-known description of Belgians is that they are born with a brick in their stomach. Although Lut is of Belgian origin, in her case she came into the world with a paintbrush in her hand. Painting, doing odd jobs and refurbishing of things is in her blood. For a long time she could only do this in her spare time. As a incest therapist, manager of a NLP-training institute and mother of four, she could not exercise her passion to paint professionally before. Lut is a late bloomer in that way. On her 40th she made her ever desired switch: she was educated as a decorative painter at Alfons Meylemans in Kapellen, Belgium. From that moment she worked fulltime as a “faux”. Material knowledge and the willing to reach technical perfection in gilding and the making of wood and marble imitations are leading ambitions in her work. In the last five years she focused her skills on the restoration of original paint layers in churches and houses. Lut also gives workshops on a regular bases to both amateur and professional painters.

Born and raised in the Catholic gaudy Ghent (Belgium), since 2001 Lut is working in the more sober Protestant Groningen (the Netherlands). With its amazing skies, vast green land, simple churches, richly decorated farmhouses, friendly people and their understated sense of humor, Groningen inspires her to pass the burning fire of enthusiasm, passion and craftsmanship.

Incredible Libraries

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:42:00 +0000

Biblioteca Geral University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal

Strahov Philosophical Hall

Strahov Theological Hall

Abbey Library St. Gallen, Switzerland

El Escorial Library, San Lorenzo, Spain

Added Value Can Sell At Higher Prices...

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Sun, 30 May 2010 02:37:00 +0000

Added Value... what does that mean exactly?

Well, added value can be anything that is included in the price of the paint job, that is perceived by the homeowner as an "Above and Beyond" benefit.

For example:

Three different painting contractors could bid a job at $3,500 and provide the same quality finished paint job, however one of them may also include, window washing, or free touch-up service, or two free gallons of paint... as an added benefit.

Added value is a great way to set your painting business apart from your competitors, but remember, you must be able to communicate that added value to the homeowner.

A great way to do this is to create an "Added Value" flier that you include in your estimate package. It should outline what your business does different or better then everyone else AND how the homeowner will benefit from it!

In this new economy, it is more important then ever to be able to differentiate yourself from all the other painting business in your market. What you offer as added value makes your company unique and more desirable to your prospects.

Sit down right now and brainstorm ways you can "Add Value" and improve the customer experience.

What do you do to stand out from the rest?

Annie Sloan

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Fri, 28 May 2010 23:35:00 +0000

Quick and Easy Transformations book available now!

Annie was born in Australia but since the age of 10 has lived in England with a spell in Zimbabwe and has a done a lot of travel particularly in Europe. Now she lives in historic Oxford where she also has her shop and paint headquarters, and she has a house in the beautiful French countryside of Normandy where she spends as much time as possible mainly in the summer months. Her 3 sons have left home now but 2 are involved in the paint business with her husband David who runs the company to leave Annie to 'play' with her paint and write books. Annie has now written over 20 books on colour, paint and various techniques over the years with sales figures reaching nearly 3 million. Annie is also involved with interior design jobs both residential and commercial. She is currently involved in a cafe in the centre of Oxford as well as a town house.

Annie is an art school graduate which is what makes her paint and colours different from all the other paint companies. She has studied paint, paint mixing and paint used in interiors, particularly on furniture from the eighteenth century and also has a passion for 20th century art. This is reflected in her range of colours and the way in which she makes textures and combines colours. The paint has been designed with the busy creative person in mind so the paint is highly pigmented, covers well and easily so furniture needs no sanding or priming so you can get on with painting and creating straight away. The paint is stocked by many stores, mainly interior decoration stores in the UK, and Europe and now we are beginning in the USA with http://www.usajoliedesign.com/

Photograph credits; the two above and the grey green wardrobe from my previous email are from 'Quick and Easy Paint Transformations' published by Ryland Peters & Small. The Paris Desk and the armoire is from , 'Creating the French Look ' again published by Ryland Peters & Small.

Heated dryers

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Sun, 16 May 2010 20:14:00 +0000

Ceilings

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Mon, 10 May 2010 22:38:00 +0000

Opened in 1903, the East Sussex County Asylum (later named Hellingly Hospital) opened its doors to admitting new patients. It was designed by G.T. Hine, a notable asylum architect at the time, and was built with the concepts that relaxing views and extreme isolation being beneficial to psychological recovery. This "enclosed community" plan called for staff living on the premises, only one access road, and its own rail line to the asylum.

Hellingly Hospital was closed in 1994 although a secure facility still operates on the campus.

Chapel interior with richly decorated ceiling, Greenwich University. Greenwich, London, England, United Kingdom

Fall Faux Retreat Extravaganza

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:50:00 +0000

I am happy to announce the fall Faux Retreat with Cynthia Davis and Vladimir Charaschevski. Join them September 11 - 15 for 5 days of classes, demos, product play and fun!

Included in your stay...

2 day class with Cynthia Davis of Cynthia Davis Designs and Wallover Stencils
2 day class with Vladimir of Meoded Paints and Plasters
Bonus mini classes including; Internet marketing, Starting a blog (we will help you start one), mini class by Marti Carroll of Caromal Colours and more to be announced soon.
Food
Lodging
Product kits
Product coupon
Create your own canvas masterpiece!
Subscription to Faux Finisher Magazine
Tool making!
Samuri faux challange! Win some great prizes.
Play with product
Your own domain name and blog!

Everyone has a great time at the retreats. There is nothing else like them and they are all unique. After your daily classes with the main instructors, you will enjoy sumptuous meals, s'mores around the campfire, Zumba or Salsa dancing, massage, parafin hand treatments and more. If you prefer some alone time you can jump in the lake for a refreshing swim, or go hiking around the 170 acres. Canoeing, boating, fishing, hot tub, sauna, Wii are also available.

New at the retreat. We will get you set up with a domain name and your own blog!

Prices start as low as $1695 (early birds) and go to $2195 for private accommodations. We have a flexible payment plan for those wanting to pay monthly payments up until the retreat.

Follow this link to read article in the Faux Finisher Magazine about the retreat. http://www.houseoffaux.com/2010/03/faux-retreat-article.html

http://www.fauxretreat.com/

Jean Sable

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 21:22:00 +0000

Born in 1961, Jeans early passion for decorative painting goes back a long way to previous generations of his family, and it is because of this cultural heritage that he naturally took to and progressed in painting techniques.

.During 1984-1985, Jean studied at and graduated from the Flemish Master School Clement VAN DER KELEN in Brussels. He has been working as a free lance Decorative Artist since 1986 and has carried out many internal decorations to satisfy the various requirements of private, commercial, theatrical or event-based decoration.

In 2000, he was awarded winner of the Gold Medal Competition for the “French Best Craftman” which is the highest award of its kind that can be achieved for decorative painting. This was presented to him by the French government in the year 2000.

At the same time as carrying out his professional obligations of decorative works of art, Jean taught his art to professional decorative painters in several art schools in Paris. Since 1990, more than 1000 students have been taught by Jean in all the disciplines of mural art, and some of them work with him today.

Jeans long experience of teaching art combined with an expert knowledge of all the techniques involved from conception to decoration, naturally led him to start his own school, in the year 2003, the SABLE SCHOOL in VERSAILLES.

The XVIIth and XVIIIth century French styles are “the source” of his inspiration. The extraordinary and historical environment of Versailles allows the students to learn in the sanctuary of French decorative arts.

30 years of so much teaching and private residential commissions have allowed him to develop a particular teaching method of decorative painting which can be compared "with the writing's apprenticeship ".

Jean is the author of “Décors-peints et trompe l'oeil” (Eyrolles editions). A book both about art and pedagogy displaying his pieces and the way to realize them. The last chapter is dedicated to a more modern conception of the decorative painting.

Appointed as “Expert” at the Versailles Court of Appeal, he operates closely with magistrates and lawyers by giving his expertise on matters relating to disorders, defects or litigations concerning interior decorative and artistic finishes.

Permanent member of the “SALON”- International Gathering of Decorative Artists - Jean will be hosting and organizing the event to mark the XVth anniversary of it, which took place in Versailles from April 8 to 11, 2010.

Main national and international realizations: Paris, Versailles, Bordeaux, Monaco, Brussels, Montreal, New York, Washington, Baltimore, Los Angeles, San Francisco.

International exhibitions : Alexandria 1998, Norrkoping 1999, London 2000, Paris 2001, San Antonio 2002, Bruges 2003, Oslo 2004, Philadelphia 2005, Utrecht 2006, Aarhus 2007, Dallas 2007, Dubai 2007, Chicago 2008, Atlantic City 2008, Dubai 2008, Bergamo 2009, Abu Dhabi 2009.

jean-sable@orange.fr
http://www.jean-sable.com/

Easy chalkboard paint finishes

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 13:14:00 +0000

Ok, I admit to really liking chalkboard walls. I think it is such an easy and great way to add interest to a room. And for someone like me who likes change, this is great because I can do anything I want on the chalkboard surface and with the swipe of a damp cloth, can change it in miutes.

This is a great idea. Goodbye post-it notes.

Nice for kids, or hire an artist for do some semi-permanant drawings.

You can apply chalkboard paint anywhere paint can. Add some interest to your surroundings.

Chalkboard paint can be used in almost any setting and is a nice suggested add on for clients. Some other ideas for places to use the chalkboard paint is cabinet doors, table tops, toilet seat covers, tv cabinets.

You are not limited to black either. You can custom make your own chalkboard paint in any color you want. If you have done a project using chalkboard paint, post a picture on the Facebook fan page.

Joyce Hutchinson

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 01:25:00 +0000

Joyce says "The natural life around me has a way of tickling my eyes and touching my soul." Flowers, wildlife, color, and light all have the elements Joyce needs to create her images. She loves to draw, paint and photograph images of what she thinks are beautiful subjects. Subjects that can be turned into the kind of art that expresses her interpretation at that moment in time. "I am excited about my work at this stage of my life. What I hope to accomplish is to create, share works that excite/calm and make people take notice of nature in a crazy world. I hope my creations bring an appreciation for the elements of nature in the art I present."

Joyce was raised in an Air Force family that traveled a lot when she was growing up. She loved it even though she had to say goodbye to friends and make new friends every few years. she looks forward to travel again with her work and in the future.

To pass much of her time, Joyce liked to draw flowers even as early as about five or six years old when she lived in Long Island. She spent many hours on the dining room table just drawing to her heart's content. Joyce doesn't remember playing a lot with dolls or even watching T.V., just drawing and occasionally... lying out in her backyard on a nice spring or summer day looking at the clouds rolling by trying to see what she could see in them and then rising above them to see what was past them. It just never stopped... just like creating.

"I took every class I could during high school and continued to paint and draw on my own". Joyce says. A degree in art at college didn't work out because of an art instructor that preached quantity NOT quality, so she left her major and ended up with a BFA in English Lit and an equivalent minor in music.

Since 1998, Joyce has been teaching art out of her home studio to children. She is in her thirteenth year now and has enjoyed teaching art education to the next generation of artists.

Joyce continues to try and produce as much art as she has time for. She takes classes when she can to help her improve her skills and widen her styles. She loves painting murals and takes commissions for fine art as well. Joyce says, "It's thrilling for me to be in a consultation listening to a client tell me what they dream of having in their home and then giving them a finished work of art that expresses exactly how the client feels and is proud to show off their art in their home. This has been an exciting adventure and I look forward to what tomorrow will bring."

What are you waiting for?

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:40:00 +0000

Faux Retreat starting May 1 - http://www.fauxretreat.com/
Included in your 5 day stay;

Meals
Lodging
Dean Sickler - 2 day class
Laine Discepoli - 2 day class
Aurastone - Mini class demonstrating this exciting counter top product. Students will get to do their own board.
Sassed to Sell - Tricks and tips to sell your work, and how to upsell them every time.
Custom canvas - everyone gets their own 24 x 24 stretched and mounted canvas
Tool making - Retreat exclusive
Getting and maintaining a web presence
Get Sassed! Special finish for class
Kathy Carroll has designed a custom finish that Kathy Boyd will debut and teach.
Samuri faux challenge - Knock off of the popular cooking show. Everyone gets the same products and will come up with a finish. Great prizes including a camcorder.

Yoga
Zumba dance lesson
Gift bags
Massage (extra charge)
Open studio time
Paraffin hand treatments
Hot tub
Sauna
Fishing
Swimming
Boating
Hiking
Smores and wine by the firepit

Individuals and businesses who have donated kits and giveaways to the retreat.

Golden/Proceed - class product and product kits
Totem Coatings - product kits
Faux Finisher Magazine - magazine subscriptions
Concrete Decor - magazine subscriptions
Faux by Kathy - gift bags
Aurastone - Class samples
Drying rack - by Marti Carroll

No Foolin' April Fools Sale!

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 03:18:00 +0000

One Day Only!

April 1, 2010

Save 25%

To honor all of those who participated in the Naming Contest on Talk Faux International (www.talkfaux.com) and for those who didn't have the opportunity to be a part of it...we are offering the opportunity to purchase a drying rack for 25% less than retail!! This means you can have your very own 5' rack for $194.99 (plus S&H) or a 6' rack for $224.99! These orders must be placed no later than 12:00 p.m. on April 1, 2010. You can only participate in this sale by ordering through the One Day Only Sale! button below!! Or by emailing me at fauxscapes@gmail.com . You can pre-order at this price anytime between today and April 1, 2010. This offer will not be given again in 2010! Thanks to everyone who participated and be on the lookout for our new name to be announced on April 1st as well!

Simple but inspired walls

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 03:58:00 +0000

All of these were found on other sites and not one of them had a credit for who did them.

This one gave me an idea of something to do in a little girls room, using pink umbrellas.

I love chalkboard walls. They work in almost any type setting.

Stefan Zokos

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:58:00 +0000

As an artist Stefan Roven Zokos takes advantage of all the shapes and the technical characteristics of paint, from the wall painting of inner or outer spaces, collages, portaiture, mixed technique e.t.c

Stefan took part in many exhibitions, collectively or by himself in Greece, United States of America, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, France, Italy, Luxemburg and other countries.

The last years of his artistic pursuit have been to undertake the wall painting of shops, hotels, club, villas and other.

Stefan says, "Wall painting is an optical delusion, a very old but same very new kind of art fitting always, emotionally and visualy with the mental outlook of every person, sending that way a message of beauty and design in and out of that place."

Inspiration to faux

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 07:34:00 +0000

Being an artist I am always studing my surroundings and looking for ideas for new decorative finishes. Sometimes the inspiration for those finishes come from the most unlikely places.

This is the Al Capone room. The walls would make a great finish for a wine celler.

These are the walls in a penitentary. Again, these would be great for a wine celler or how about a theater room?

I rarely get a chance to do a finish like the photo above, but I like them.

Faux Retreat article

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 22:16:00 +0000

Faux Retreat

Mark Nordgren

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 03:21:00 +0000

Mark Nordgren founded Bella Faux Finishes in 2005. The inspiration came from a vacation in Las Vegas. I saw an incredible finish on one of the walls and asked what it was; they said it was Venetian Plaster. I fell in love with this effect. When we got home, I spent a few weeks researching Venetian Plaster and the various Faux Finish Vendors that offer their own version of Venetian plaster. Ordered some Venetian plaster and finished our dining room. I had some disappointment in the final effect. So I began searching the web and discovered the real Italian Plasters from Verona, Italy. I attended the School of Italian Plaster in Atlanta and have been amazed at the drama the Italian Finishes can bring to a project.

Bella Faux Finishes is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and is the Midwest leader in the application of the historic Italian Plasters from Verona, Italy. We specialize in Italian Venetian Plaster and the dramatic Italian Finishes. We also specialize in American Clay Plasters, Armourcoat Polished Plasters and New Faux Finishes.

A passionate student of the methodology of creating "The Wow Effect". Our design goal is to create “The Wow Effect” on every project. Mark is the author of a variety of articles on Interior Design and Home Building.

Is there such a thing as too much togetherness?

I think it depends upon the chemistry of the family. We have a funny group, somebody is always doing or saying something crazy to get a laugh, so projects are always fun. One mistake I learned early on, is to avoid scheduling projects too close together. It’s so easy to say yes to every project that comes your way. The Italian Plasters are a physical application and burn out can set in pretty fast. So our family goal is to schedule 8 – 10 weeks off every year to refresh and reflect.

Relationship & Number of years working together?

My wife Kathleen, with sons David and Michael, has been involved in our business since 2005. My oldest son Jason is a talented Chef living in Eugene, Oregon.

How did you start working together?

From the beginning, everyone in our family loved the idea of sharing the Italian Plasters. My first project was a Master Bedroom, applying Italian Venetian Plaster. I taught my sons how to burnish behind me. From there they enjoyed learning the techniques and also the satisfaction you receive when you create “The Wow Effect” on a project.

What kind of business do you have and what are the roles each of you have in it?

At Bella Faux Finishes, we specialize in the application of Italian Venetian Plaster and the Italian Finishes, imported from Verona, Italy. We also offer a variety of other Interior Design services.

Mark’s role is to create the magic and buzz with new samples of finishes, social and business networking, new client presentations, author of a variety of articles and a new book “How to Create the Wow Effect in you Home or Business”, web design and Artisan applying the Italian Finishes on projects.

Kathleen, my wife, is involved in our marketing plan, guards our cash flow and helps with presentations.

David, my middle son, is an Artisan and co-owner working full time. David shares in presentations, creating new finishes, marketing ideas and is also co-author of our new book.

Michael, my youngest son, is an Artisan and markets my articles. He is now a freshman in College at SDSU in Brookings, South Dakota, majoring in a career in the medical field – Physical Therapy. Our shoulders may need him full time down the road.

What are some of the rewards and challenges of working together?

Business is such a great teacher. Understanding the clients design goals of the project. We have some finishes that are perfect for a small area, but can be overwhelming in a large room. Sometimes you have to talk a client out of a finish, when a rich paint color is the perfect effect. Our goal on a project is to create “The Wow Effect”. Decorative Finishes are like the seasoning in a great meal; sometimes less will create... more drama.

Do you have any advice for other families/marriages who may want to work together?

You must have the same Passion and Belief in the Long-term Success of your business plan. All opinions have value and need to be considered. Build a great website with lots of information and large photos of your best Art. Guard your cash and choose your advertising options carefully. Two great books on marketing are “Brandsformation” by Chuck Mefford and “Inbound Marketing” by Brian Halligan & Dharmesh Shah. Finally get out the door with your best samples, fire up your passion and share your amazing story with everyone you meet.
What is a great moment you can remember sharing together?

We love our iPods on projects. It is always funny when someone encounters trouble. One time the ear buds fell in the plaster, another time I clipped one off with a trowel. But the worst experience is when your battery goes dead right away on a project, “You’ll say, Hey guys what do you want to talk about?” and... nobody wants to talk to you. Pretty funny!

The worst moment?

Early years, I bid a new construction, large 2-story walkout home, all the painting and Italian Finishes in 6 rooms. I soon realized I was way over my heard for our young company. I found someone to take my paint bid; we then had fun layering the Italian Finishes.

Below are two of Mark's articles that have been published around the world:

"The 7 Interior Design Mistakes"
http://bellafauxfinishes.com/7interiordesignmistakes.html

"The 7 Home Building Mistakes"
http://www.bellafauxfinishes.com/7homebuildingmistakes.html

Facebook /Mark Nordgren or Twitter/Italianfinishes

Our Design Goal... "Every Home Deserves a Room, that Quietly Whispers... Wow!"

http://www.bellafauxfinishes.com/

Bathtubs

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 14:00:00 +0000

Here are some examples of some great bathtubs. I especially like the rock tub.

This bathtub is a great example of how you can rivive a tired looking tub into something decorative and fresh.

These last two above are from the Italian company Gruppo Treesse

Not sure who is responsible for this beautiful amethyst tub.

Tim Martin

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:31:00 +0000

I have been an artist all my life. Besides being blessed with natural ability I was fortunate to have had some very good grade school Art teachers. Who helped feed my need to be creative, by introducing me to techniques that other students didn’t have an interest in. In high school if I wasn’t on the football field I was in the art room. My senior year I had my first one man Art show and mural demo. That year I also had my first paying mural job.

College for me was going to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, for Visual Communications. I new this was the place for me! I was hoping to be the next Frank Frezzetta or Boris, but that style of painting was not taught there. Yet I learned so many other things, like Airbrush, Graphic Design, Advertising Layout and so much more.

Graduated from AIP and took a year of Graphic Design at Kent State, then started working in Advertising, as a staff artist and worked my way up the ladder to become an Art Director.

By now I had become eager to paint again, so my girl friend now wife and I started airbrushing leathers and the like at biker swap meets. That went well, then one day at work I saw out my window two men painting a billboard and I was very interested to work big again. So I called to see if the company needed an Art Director or staff artist. They said no, but asked if I could paint. The next week I was getting my fear of heights cured, and became a journey man sign painter in a year or so. While working for the billboard company I started painting murals on weekends in kid’s rooms. Little did I know computers would phase out hand painted billboards. Luckily my wife and I had the mural painting business as a part time venture, so we opened the business full time. We have been running Tim Martin Muralist know for 18 years. My wife [Kelly] handles the business part and I the creative.

Kathy, I must tell you and our readers that when we started this business 18 years ago. We were flying in uncharted space. There were no professional’s per say in Western New York. Plus at that time and up until 2004 I had no clue that decorative painting was a national/international thriving profession. My training other than murals was all self taught and from books from artists that came or learned from European artists, but in 2004 that all changed with the start of our web site the year before. We were contracted to paint two mansions in Huston TX back to back. The first client introduced me to “faux effects” at “Any Thing But Plain”. That job was the first in which I used “faux effects products” with my own. When I got back home I was recharged with new creativity and thirst for new products to create with. I still have my tried and true old standards using paint and drywall compounds. Now I have been working with what ever product will work best for my clients needs. I’m still self taught ,other than a mail order course from ”Anything But Plain” or going to Gary Lords open houses every March. Oh! Let’s not forget books. Then there is having to learn under the gun which is very exhilarating for me. It’s like cramming for an exam and playing at the same time; had to do this for an Indian Casino in southern WNY. The products could not be replicated because of architects specs [American Clay]. I learned American Clay by just doing and some phone coaching from tech. The architects and Indians loved my American Clay work.

My long term goal is to be able to learn more, do more fine art and teach the art of decorative painting which I love with a passion; and in the process start an apprenticeship program in Europe. Which I hope will give an artist the opportunity to do what they love [be creative] and get paid to do it.

Cool Finds

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 03:55:00 +0000

Just some random things I have found that have caught my attention.

A new art installation entitled “Shattering Door” (2009) by Leandro Erlich. It is on display at the Luciana Brito gallery in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

I wish I could have found more information on this piece. Not sure how he did this, but it is cool.

Some great work by Cal Lane http://www.callane.com/

Cal says, "With this notion of desirable oppositions I created the structure “fabricate”. In this Structure I hand cut lace trimming patterns into 9 I-beams, then constructed a tower, simultaneously macho, and of delicate finery. The metaphor of lace further intrigued me by its associations of hiding and exposing at the same time; like a veil to cover, or lingerie to reveal. It also introduces a kind of humor through the form of unexpected relationships. Like a Wrestler in a tutu, the absurdity of having opposing extremist stances is there for reaction and not rational understanding; the rational discussion arises in the search for how one thing defines the other by its proximity."

Must have rugs!!

I love this table. It will be available to buy later this year!

Creative Shelving

How about this for saving your pennies!

I ran across these clever outlet covers and wish they had listed where they could be purchased.

Hamburger bed - Creative modern bed by Kayla Kromer looks like a giant hamburger

"Faux" Family

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 03:18:00 +0000

Marriage and Family can be a work in progress under the best of circumstances, but actually working together? I tend to believe that this business has more couples and families that work together than in any other field. The rewards of doing this can be great, it must be wonderful to share your days with those you love the most, isn’t it?

Welcome to Family Showcase. Several times a year we will profile a “working” family and feature them on House of Faux.

Fike Studio

noreply@blogger.com (Kathy Boyd) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 17:54:00 +0000

Fike Studio has been an evolution of business, family and creativity. About 20 years ago Theresa Fike needed to make some major changes in her life. One of her brothers-in-law asked her to go with him to look at a home in an exclusive community in Granite Bay CA. She had never heard the term Faux before but he asked her if she could paint a fireplace to look like marble, she did and Fike Studio was born. Within 6 months Theresa had taught herself everything she could about decorative painting and won the contract for a 15,000 square foot mansion, that Eddy Murphy purchased. she brought in help, including family members, to complete the job in 11 months and it has been a ride ever since.

Fike Studio is now the premier Decorative Arts Company in the greater Sacramento area, working with the finest designers and boasting an impressive clientele list. Part of Fike Studios appeal is the family connection. Over the years Theresa has worked with 15 members of her family: a brother as a partner, sisters nieces and nephews as associates, and another sister as the art gallery manager and art rep for Fike Gallery. But, the best was when her son, David, after helping out for 7 years, decided he wanted to become a partner in Fike Studio. That was 6 years ago and they are still going strong today.
FikeGallery.com
FikeStudio.ning.com
FikeStudio.blogspot.com
Theresa@FikeStudio.com
David@FikeStudio.com

Q and A with Theresa

IS THERE SUCH A THING AS TOO MUCH TOGETHERNESS?
This is definitely a lesson I needed to learn after my son got married. My daughter-in-law comes from a very close loving family (much like mine) and I needed to back off a bit to let her get comfortable with sharing not just herself but her husband and their new daughter.

RELATIONSHIP and NUMBER OF YEARS WORKING TOGETHER
I won’t list all 15 here, but here are a few
David, son, 7 years part time associate and 6 years as partner
Leslie, brother, partner for 1 year and collaborator on multiple projects for 17 years
Desiree, niece, associate on and off for 15 years
Elizabeth, sister, manager and Art Rep for Fike Gallery, 2 years

I do have to mention Lauren here. Even though she is not technically family, she has become family. I’ve known her about 15 years. She’s been an associate in Fike Studio for 4 years, and as far as I’m concerned she may as well be my daughter, David even introduces her as his sister.

And Kelly, my husband who has silently supported me for 30 years from the side lines.

HOW DID YOU START WORKING TOGETHER?
In 1972 my parents opened The Balcony Restaurant in Folsom Ca. and employed all 8 of their children to work it. Growing up in a family restaurant, we learned early how to work with each other. Believe me it wasn’t always easy working with six sisters and one brother, there was plenty of family drama. Yet we remain close today, living in the same area and helping each other in all our endeavors.

WHAT KIND OF BUSINESS DO YOU HAVE AND WHAT ARE THE ROLES EACH OF YOU HAVE IN IT?
Fike Studio is incorporated, licensed and bonded in California. C-33 license.
We have an 1100 sq ft warehouse that we work and teach from.
Fike Studio, inc. has one subsidiary, Fike Gallery currently only online.

My role is Head Honcho. I develop the finishes and teach them to my crew, I do all the marketing and client relations including estimates and billing Other tasks include, but are never limited to: planning and research, online networking and website management,

David does the books and the taxes and is responsible for the supplies for each job and crew manger. One or both of us is always on the job site.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE REWARDS AND CHALLENGES OF WORKING TOGETHER?
I’ll start with the challenges here. The only significant challenge has been who is boss at any given time. For the most part that tends to be me, as it should be given I created the business, but more and more David needs the room to be boss. I have had to learn to let him do things his way even if it meant the result was different then I wanted. I had to learn when to relinquish control and how to step in when the outcome was questionable. I think the challenge for David is seeing the direction I’m taking the business, he tends toward “sticking with what you know” and I tend toward building an ever expanding repertoire of services.

The rewards are worth any challenge. I get to work with the people I love!

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER FAMILIES/MARRIAGES WHO MAY WANT TO WORK TOGETHER?
Respect, Respect, Respect.
Create a real business plan that defines each individual’s role in the business
Give each other space on occasion
Don’t sweat the small stuff
Check your breath before working on small areas together
Give credit where credit is do to all members of your crew

Laugh as much and as often as possible

WHAT IS A GREAT MOMENT YOU CAN REMEMBER SHARING TOGETHER? THE WORST?
There are a lot of great moments but one that is especially unique is when David and I decided to open Fike Gallery. We went to the New York Art Expo together. We fine-tuned our business plan and spent 3 days deciding which artitsts we wanted to include in the gallery.

A single moment or event is not coming to mind as a “worst moment” but the strain of keeping everything going this last year has caused some stress. It falls on my shoulders to bring in the jobs and the additional hours necessary to do that were not always appreciated or valued by David or my husband.