Common Questions

1.  What is unique about your workshop?

This workshop grew out of a desire to share what I learned growing my own business. During that process it became painfully clear that running an efficient, profitable business was as important to my success as doing beautiful faux finishes. From that simple revelation was born “Donna’s Designs Faux & Business Workshop” in 1996. Our desire was to have a workshop that covers both business and artist “know how” taught in a non-intimidating atmosphere. We built a custom teaching studio and have graduated over 1,200 students from our program.

The business side of the class utilizes a detailed, 8-chapter business manual I’ve written exclusively for this class and continue to update. It covers everything from putting together a portfolio, pricing, working with designers, licensing, getting into show houses, a two-step business plan, how to market yourself in your local community, and much more. I made so many mistakes when I started “fauxing” in 1985. I want my students to benefit from my mistakes, as well as from what I did right. The class is interactive with real life marketing and sales situations discussed. We also cover important aspects of the business such as, how to do strips fast with no measuring or math, how to do corners, how to work over wallpaper and paneling, priming, as well as what inexpensive supplies to use to make the job easier. Time saving tips and problem solving will increase both your confidence and your profits.

In the artistic side of the class I teach you beautiful faux finishes that are streamlined, fast, requires no wet edge, no special or expensive systems, and are very profitable. They range from leather, stone, marble, textures, sky, metallics, and much more. We even do a little “Trompe L’oeil” by doing a sample board of a lovely stone-block wall “breakaway” with a lovely sky. In addition, we do cover some aspects of stenciling in the class. All finishes are taught “one on one” and you go home with sample boards of approximately 17 finishes and we even give you a portfolio case to take them home in.

We will also continue to give support after the class by giving you a phone number to stay in touch. Whether you are starting a new business to support yourself and/or your family, or thinking of part-time you still want to work smart, get paid well, and offer a great service to your community. I love faux finishing and launching others into an industry that is so rewarding. I am so interested in my students success I am always looking for affordable easy way to market your business.

2.  What is a system of products?

Systems are products that interact with each other to give a certain effect. They usually require you to use their specific basecoats and topcoats to create a look or finish that make you dependent on that product line. They also can be expensive. I prefer to use commonly found products that you can find at your local paint store. When researching schools we recommend students ask if they teach from, and require the use of a specific product line.

3.   How many students do you teach in a class?

All boards are taught “one on one”, and they are “hands on”. Our classes usually run 1-6 students. I have a crew that makes the class a fun experience. We provide students lunch and an afternoon snack. Much of the work is done before a student walks through the door i.e.: all sample boards prepped, business manuals put together, etc.

4.   I am intimidated about being in a class with experienced faux finish artists. Can someone with little or no experience keep up?

I joke that as long as you can read, are not color blind, and know “ugly” when you see it, you can become a faux finisher. We cover essential information like taping off a room, how to do outlets, and how to do corners. Every finish is demonstrated, then you get a chance to do the finish, and then watch others one at a time complete their boards. It is a great way to learn. The “how to” sheets are so thorough, and the details are clearly written down so that you can “focus” on learning.

5. Will I be prepared to start my own business when I complete this class?

Our students come to us with varying amounts of previous experience. That is why the business manual covers areas such as how to put your portfolio together, business cards, setting up your studio, marketing, designers, pricing, show houses, and problem solving. The workshop also includes many helpful hints to save you “time and money” on every job you’ll ever do. How to “work smarter, not harder” is not just a cliché with me. When you complete the “Faux Finish & Business Workshop” you will have a foundation to build a successful business. We even give you phone number so we can assist you after the class is over.

6. Is this a certificate program?

Yes, you will receive a certificate of completion from “Donnas Designs Faux Finish & Business Workshop”. This class will give you the confidence that can make the difference in your business.

7. I am currently in business. How can your class help me?

I can help in several ways. First of all, running an efficient, profitable business does not happen by accident. There are many things I did right and maybe more importantly many things I did wrong over the past 18 years. I want to pass on ways to save you “time and money”. Second, the faux finishes you learn are unique, and beautiful. Each one has it’s own individual “how to” sheet, with every detail from how to complete the finish successfully, to pricing.

8. What is so special about your finishes?

Many of the faux finishes taught in our class are displayed on our website. Several rooms done in these finishes are featured throughout as well . I like the finishes in the class because they are uncomplicated, inexpensive, do not require two people, and can be varied. I even tell you how to turn many of the finishes you learn in class into different finishes, and what to call them. I like to teach you finishes that don’t require a “wet edge” (meaning if your edge dries it will compromise the look). Most faux finishers teach themselves techniques over the years. I am just letting you benefit from my years of “trial and error”.

9. What if I think I just want to faux finish my own home? Can this class still help?

If I was going to do my “own” home, I would especially appreciate the individual “how to” sheets for each faux finish explaining how to do corners, the supplies needed, and instructions that I believe are “understandable”. I would also like all the time saving hints and how to successfully complete a room from start to finish.

10. What kind of start-up costs are involved in becoming a faux finisher?

There is initial basic equipment such as a ladder, drop clothes, rollers, toolbox, and that cost depends on what you already have at home. On a per job basis, I am happy to say that the paints used to create most faux finishes usually don’t run over $25.00/room. There are some things like a certain brush or stencil that you may need, but these can be used over and over.

11. Do you have supplies available?

I have various inexpensive tools I use regularly. We hand out a “resource” sheet so you can purchase them on your own. We want to make it easy for you to find the products. Some of these we have here available during the class or later when you come across the need for them. This class is about helping your business-not pushing product.

12. Do I go home with sample boards?

Yes, you go home with a complete array of boards and a portfolio case to put them in.

13. What airport do I fly into?

Jackson-Hartsfield International Airport, Atlanta, Georgia.

14. Where is Lawrenceville?

The workshop is located just outside of Atlanta. We can mail or fax you a map to the class and/or to the hotel.

15. Where do I stay if I am from out of town?

We have made arrangements at the Super 8 Motel, in Snellville. All you need to do is check off on the registration form if you want to stay at the motel. We will reserve your room and mail you a follow-up packet with motel confirmation number, flyer, and letter from us welcoming you to the class. We are happy to take you to and from the studio each day and a driver is available at the motel for a nominal fee.  Movies, shopping and several restaurants are near the motel.

If you would like to have a shuttle bring you from Jackson-Hartsfield International Airport to the Super 8 Motel and back again, we recommend AAA Shuttle Service (1-800-354-7874). It is $40.00 each way. Please be sure that AAA Shuttle is on the side of the van. For additional important information concerning the class please see the bottom of the registration page.

16. What clothes do I bring?

All you need is "paint clothes". 

17. How much money should I bring?

You will need to pay for the hotel upon leaving, your evening meals, and any supplies you may want. Students usually spend $100.00 - $200.00, but that is totally up to you, the “business owner”.

18. Do I need to bring any supplies with me?

No, we are going to supply you with everything you need to use in the class.

19. My business partner and I both want to come to the class. Is there any kind of business partner discount?

Yes, it is $50.00 off each person’s registration; however, if we are offering a special price the discount does not apply.  You can also save at the hotel by sharing a room with two queen beds. 

20. What is there to do in the evenings?

Movies, shopping, and several restaurants are near the motel.  The students usually go out to eat together in the evenings. You make some great friendships while you are here.

21. How soon before I can expect to re-coop the cost of coming to class?

Depending on the costs incurred in getting to our class here in Atlanta, your first 2-3 jobs should cover it.

22. How can I sign- up? When is your next class?

Click Register now on this site for dates and times and the registration form to sign-up.  You may print that off the site and mail it in or call us at 770-985-2285 and we'll be happy to register you over the phone.