MATERIAL MATTERS

DAY 1: Concrete Foundations

Material Matters is all about bridging artistry and constructability, giving students a chance to not just see materials, but to truly work with them. The course opened by grounding everyone in the fundamentals of concrete. Students learned full-depth pours, placement, screeding, floating, edging, and troweling, understanding how each step impacts durability and finish. From there, they explored decorative techniques like exposed aggregate with Topcast, stamping and texturing with Sika color hardeners, and stencil systems, discovering how concrete can carry both function and narrative.

DAY 2: Overlays & Vertical Systems

Training moved into engineered overlays and vertical applications. Students practiced wet-on-wet and bonded systems with Firmecrete, polished self-levelers from Rapid Set, and ultra-thin microtoppings by Surecrete and Durameen. Vertical carving and wall microtops expanded their creativity, while coating 3D-printed substrates with overlays demonstrated the fusion of emerging technology with traditional craft.

DAY 3 - Paint & Stain

The focus turned to color and artistry. Using PPG paints and Surecrete EcoStains, students layered washes, stains, and crackle effects to replicate natural wood, stone, and brick finishes. These techniques emphasized how paint and stain can add depth, realism, and storytelling power to themed environments.

DAY 4: Resins, Coatings & Sealers

The final day highlighted advanced systems that merge performance with aesthetics. Students worked hands-on with Resinwerks epoxy mortars, metallic pours, broadcast flake flooring, Ennis Flint thermoplastics, and a variety of sealers. These systems showcased how protective coatings don’t just preserve surfaces—they expand creative possibilities for themed and commercial projects alike.

As the week came to a close, students and staff celebrated with cake, and desserts. Each participant received a certificate of completion, recognizing their dedication and new skills. To top it off, a raffle was held for a brand-new painter’s backpack, capping off an unforgettable week of learning, collaboration, and community.

THANK YOU TO OUR STUDENTS AND SPONSORS!

THANK YOU TO OUR STUDENTS AND SPONSORS!

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