Scagliola (Faux Marble Making) with Claudio
  • Catelfiorentino, Tuscany, Italy
  • 30 hours over 5 days

Scagliola (Faux Marble Making) with Claudio

Explore the historic Italian craft of Scagliola with Claudio in Castelfiorentino, a picturesque Tuscan village. Discover the secrets behind creating stunning faux marble surfaces using natural materials, vibrant pigments, and meticulous craftsmanship. Outside the studio, find inspiration in the surrounding countryside or a day trip to Florence to see Scagliola in situ.
  • Snacks, Coffee, & Tea

Pricing

One Guest
USD $1955
Additional guest(s) (max 2)
USD $1200

Meet the Artist

Claudio is an Italian artisan and designer known for his mastery of ceramics and the ancient Scagliola technique, which he reimagines with a contemporary sensibility. Born in northern Italy, his creative path led him through studies in art history, sculpture, embroidery, weaving, and ceramics. It was during this time that he discovered Scagliola—an age-old method once used in architecture and inlay as an alternative to stone—and became captivated by its potential. He later studied this 16th-century technique under Master Mauro Patrini at the European Center for Restoration, deepening his commitment to preserving and evolving this rare craft.

Claudio’s process begins with mold-making, shaping his forms before applying a mixture of plaster, gypsum, animal glue, and natural pigments to create marble-like surfaces. The results are vibrant, fluid, and richly textured, often contrasted with the clean lines of geometric structures—a distinctive interplay between tradition and modern design. In ceramics, Claudio specializes in mold-making and casting, producing refined furniture and tableware in porcelain.

Claudio loves the idea of being able to share one of his greatest passions with people from different cultures and countries and looks forward to welcoming you into his creative world.

VAWAA Includes:

  • Learn about the raw materials used in scagliola, focusing on gypsum, glue, and pigments.
  • Understand how to create mixtures by following specific rules to replicate marble designs.
  • Design and explore the interplay of textures and colors in faux marble.
  • Learn the sanding, filling, polishing and finishing techniques to complete the piece.
  • Day trip to Florence to visit key sites showcasing scagliola works.
  • Explore the Opificio delle Pietre Dure to see exquisite examples of scagliola craftsmanship.

Explore Catelfiorentino, Tuscany

Castelfiorentino, located in the heart of Tuscany between Florence and Siena, is a small, historic town that offers a more authentic and peaceful alternative to the region’s more tourist-heavy destinations. With its medieval churches, Renaissance frescoes, and a lively weekly market, the town offers a glimpse into the rhythms of real Tuscany. It’s surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves—perfect for scenic walks or countryside drives—and well connected by train to Florence and other nearby towns. Key highlights include the 13th-century Collegiata dei Santi Lorenzo e Leonardo, the Sanctuary of Santa Verdiana, and the Be.Go. Museum featuring frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli. The town’s vibrant cultural calendar includes events like the “In/Canti e Banchi” theater festival and the “Ca*Stellare” Palio, blending art, history, and community spirit.

Additional Details

Castelfiorentino is lovely year-round, but the best times to visit are Spring (March to June) and Autumn (September to November), when many local festivals celebrate the countryside and regional cuisine. It’s best to avoid August, as tourism peaks and many locals head to the seaside.

This session can be extended for up to 15 days. Please add a note in your booking request.

Adults 18 years and older are welcome to participate. This VAWAA is not suitable for guests with dust allergies. Additionally, scagliola adhesives are of animal origins and cannot be made vegan.

Claudio speaks Italian and English.
Claudio's Availability 5 days