My very favorite studio in my home state of Florida is the Sarasota School of Faux & Architectural Finishing.  The school is run by Donna Phelps and she is a fellow Global Moderator on Talk Faux.  I can’t say enough good things about Donna — she’s funny, a fantastic teacher and a super genius at producing the most awesome sample boards.  Every year brings new and exciting techniques — sooooo glad to have her only 2 hours away.  :)

Which brings me to the Fall Faux Fling.  Donna is having an Open House at her studio this Saturday (October 11th) from Noon - 5:30 pm.   (For address, phone or RSVP info, click here.)  She is previewing new classes, new products and new stencils.  She’s also having hourly drawings (last time I won some cool products…love that!) and having an inventory sale to make room for all the new materials (see…this is where I get in trouble…).  Here’s a peek at some of her new finishes:

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Can you say Yummy & Delicious?!?  These boards plus many more will be on display and there will be some cool presentations as well.  I heard that she also has William Cochran coming in to teach a class…

I’ve been going to Donna’s studio since 2000.  I still faithfully try to go at least once per year because I can always count on her to add to my bag of tricks.  She’s also a popular teacher at the IDAL conventions and at other faux schools nationwide.  I hope you get a chance to check out her studio! 

10/18 UPDATE:  Another of my faves, Dundean Studios, is having their second Open House of the year next Saturday, October 25th from 9 am - 5:30 pm.  Their studio (where I’ve taken many courses, most recently Advanced Woodgraining) is located in Chatham, NJ.  Dean is a Salon member and a true master in our field — if you get a chance, don’t miss going to his studio.