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Decorative Restoration Program

Decorative RestorationThe greenest building is the one already built.

Learn to appreciate historic buildings and the tradition of their decoration and construction and help keep our heritage intact for today and tomorrow. The skills to restore and beautify the places that matter to you are taught at A-B Tech.

The Decorative Techniques and Restoration program teaches students skills to restore existing historic buildings to their former glory as well as the skills to create beautiful spaces in any age building. Whether you are into furniture, objects or buildings, the skills taught in the program will allow you to restore, rejuvenate or repair many common traditional as well as modern building materials. Students learn fundamental skills such as paint removal, surface cleaning and preparation, plaster repair and coatings application, which when done correctly are essential to the longevity, value and beauty of any restoration or decorating project. Move beyond the DIY culture and learn preservation trade skills that will allow you to repair and restore our nation’s built environment.

Come learn the craft of painting and decorating and find out how to refinish woodwork and furniture, repair a plaster molding, stencil a frieze, gild a coffered ceiling, marbleize a column, wood grain a door, make your own green paints, glaze a wall and many more traditional decorating skills.

The Foundation Level stresses the development of good work habits while introducing students to tools and equipment, color theory, safety, materials, calculations and surface preparation. Modern and traditional materials and processes are covered to give an understanding and appreciation of the historical evolution of the trade. As students develop sound straight painting practices, basic techniques of decorative painting are taught. Studio and off site projects allow students to apply their knowledge and gain practical experience. Students qualify for the Advanced Level through a competency exam at the end of the Foundation Level and through completion of practical assignments.

The Advanced Level covers architectural design styles, mold making and casting, ornamental plaster repair and gilding as well as more complex decorative techniques, allowing for the development of individual style.


Full-time, 44-week program
January - December
Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Entry Requirements: Students must be 18 years of age, have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to work on scaffold, an interest in the field and a strong work ethic.

Fees: $426.25 per quarter, approximately $400 for specialty tools and books.


For further details or to receive an information package please contact Tim Hanlon at 828-254-1921, Ext. 358 or thanlon@abtech.edu.

Decorative Restoration at the Biltmore Estate

A-B Tech, the community's college, is dedicated to student success.

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