Scagliola is created from several hand-colored mixtures of plaster. Other natural ingredients are added to the mixtures depending on the desired pattern or marbling. We also manipulate the consistency of these mixtures for various effects. We use Kremer pigments and typically use either Densite or Hydrocal plaster in addition to fiberglass, or steal supports. The finish is often oiled and or waxed.

Basically, no. Scagliola is an interior surface and process. it is water-resistant but not waterproof.

No, it is inside too! The color and “pattern” are through and through. There is no surface application of tints, paints, or colors, and every color and pattern is the piece’s structure.

There have been significant innovations that allow for lighter panels and objects such as adding fiberglass and wire mesh. Most scagliola is 1/2 -1 inch thick for structural and pattern-making reasons. For a ballpark, a one-foot panel inlay is under 5 pounds.

So many things - walls, tables, panels, objects, decorative bowls, cast forms, columns. Really anything that can be made with plaster can be made with scagliola. That said some shapes work better than others.

To care for the surface, dust it with a soft cloth. To prevent long-term damage, keep it away from moisture and don’t let it get wet. If it does get wet, dry it off. It is recommended to use coasters, like one would with a fine wood table. To protect the form, avoid collisions with other hard objects. Every few years you can polish the surface with Micro-Crystalline Wax and then buff with a soft cloth until shiny if needed.

We use Kremer Pigments and have access to a wide range of colors from neons to earth pigments to synthetics. The pigments must work with the ph of the plaster and so there are some limitations, however, virtually all color shades and tones can be recreated.

We do teach traditional Scagliola, we do not plan on teaching at the moment. You can sign up for our quarterly newsletter and you will be the first to know when we hold a workshop!