A Typical Class Experience

At the Chicago Institute of Fine Finishes, a decorative painting and faux finishing school, we strive to ensure that each of our students has a phenomenal experience. Before you arrive, we spend the week preparing class samples, tweaking recipes, finalizing the class manual, prepping the classroom and sample boards, stocking the refrigerator and checking all the final details that help make you feel welcome and creative.

 

Class begins at 9:00 a.m. First thing in the morning, while our minds are fresh, we hold our incredible business classes. It is our belief that learning to run your business profitably is as important as the creation of your beautiful, unique, marketable samples. On Monday, we talk about how much money you want to make in this business. Is it a hobby or a profession?  Tuesday, we discuss how to calculate square footage rates along with day rates. On Wednesday, we discuss how to market your faux finishing business and how to develop and keep those business contacts. Thursday is reality check; how to protect your business. On Friday, open discussion about faux finishing products, decorative painting techniques. 

"Your Success is Our Success”

 

After our business discussion, the fun begins.

We then get busy creating many diverse and multi-layer, stylish samples that will become your portfolio. Our teaching method includes a three-step process: read it, see it, do it. You will follow along a step-by-step guide in your manual, which includes a full-color picture of the completed sample, watch the instructor create the finish, then apply the finish to your own samples. While creating your sample you will be have one on one time with the instructor.

 

Around noon we break to have lunch. Which is provided by the Chicago Institute of Fine Finishes. During lunch the talk always swirls around faux talk and exchanging ideas with one another..

 

After lunch we return to the classroom and continue making samples.  During the sample-making process the instructor will share hints, tips and secrets for installation of the finish on walls and floors. Kathy is not above telling stories on herself and explaining problems she has encountered on job sites and what she did to troubleshoot the setback. 

 

One of our students is quoted as saying “This class has changed my life” to describe our Professional Faux class. though our classes are intense, having fun is listed as one of our Course Objectives. It is our absolute pleasure to watch each class bond. Some great friendships, even partnerships have ensued after two strangers met and spent the week getting acquainted in our class.

  

At the Chicago Institute of Fine Finishes, we truly appreciate each and every student. We look forward to having you in class.

 

 

 

"Your Success is our Success"