Faux Wood Graining Workshop

Saturday, July 19th, 2025 | 1-4pm

General Admission = $45

The Southern Indiana Folk School @ The Jefferson County History & Art Center (615 W. 1st Street, Madison, IN 47250)

Students will learn the tools and techniques of wood graining. This versatile skill allows many different effects. Students will create a “process board”: a step-by-step illustration of the wood graining process. The finished product can be used as a visual reminder for future projects. It may be displayed as an artwork on its own.

Graining is the practice of imitating wood grain on a non-wood surface, or on relatively undesirable wood surface, in order to give it the appearance of a rare or higher quality wood, thereby increase that surface's aesthetic appeal. Graining was common in the 19th century, as people were keen on imitating hard, expensive woods by applying a superficial layer of paint onto soft, inexpensive woods or other hard surfaces.

Instructor bio
David Cart is Historic Madison’s Director of Preservation & Maintenance. David created a coalition of several groups that led to the complete restoration of the Lanier Mansion and garden. As the Director of Preservation and Maintenance, he is responsible for the preservation, restoration, and maintenance of 17 historic buildings, six gardens, and various artifacts. David is an expert in wall stenciling and faux graining.

Please register by July 12th. Limited spots available!

Recommended for adults.