Our course covers all aspects of restoration: from theory to practice. Students study the history of art, the materials and technologies used in restoration, as well as diagnostic and conservation methods. We offer classes in:
- Restoration theory: studying the principles and ethics of restoration work.
- Practical skills: working with various materials such as wood, metal, textiles, and painting.
- Modern technologies: using 3D modeling and other innovative methods in restoration.
We understand that theory without practice will not give the necessary skills. Therefore, our school actively cooperates with museums, galleries and restoration workshops, providing students with the opportunity to undergo internships and participate in real projects. This allows our graduates not only to gain valuable experience, but also to establish professional contacts in the industry.
Our teachers are experienced restorers and art historians who share their knowledge and experience with students. They are actively involved in scientific research and restoration projects, which allows them to keep up to date with the latest trends and technologies in the field of restoration.
Unlike many theoretical courses, conservation school offers practical training where students can work with real objects, allowing them to develop practical skills. Programs are often taught by experienced conservationists and experts in the field of cultural heritage conservation, ensuring a high level of training and knowledge transfer.
Students are introduced to the latest restoration techniques and technologies, making them competitive in the job market. The training covers various aspects such as art history, chemistry, history, allowing students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of restoration.
The school often provides internships in museums, galleries and conservation workshops, allowing students to gain valuable experience and establish professional contacts. Working in the field of conservation provides an opportunity to participate in the preservation of cultural heritage, which can be very satisfying and meaningful.
Conservation requires creativity and artistic flair, allowing students to develop their artistic skills. Studying at a school creates opportunities to network with like-minded people, professionals, and potential employers in the field of restoration and preservation of cultural property.
Many schools offer a variety of learning formats, including evening courses and distance learning programs, allowing students to study at their own pace. With the increasing interest in the preservation of cultural heritage and the arts, restoration specialists are becoming increasingly sought after in the job market.
These benefits make studying at a conservation school an attractive choice for those interested in this unique and important profession.
It is important to correctly assess the condition of the product and draw up a plan for restoring the Viennese chair, including disassembly, restoration of joint elements, grinding, repair and restoration of the frame, decoration and assembly.
Disassembling the structure
We begin the restoration of the Viennese chair by detaching the seat and back. Then we proceed to disassembling the frame:
unscrew the screws. To facilitate the process, lubricate the rusted screws and bolts with machine oil;
glued elements will be easier to separate from each other if they are heated with a hair dryer;
carefully loosen the tenon-groove fastenings. Remove the tenoned parts of the legs, backs and seats from the grooves.
Mark all frame elements to facilitate the assembly process.
Frame restoration
We clean the wooden parts from varnish or paint, using a remover or acetone for this.
Large cracks are filled with glue, tightened with clamps and left until completely dry.
Deep cracks and chips are restored with a mixture of wood glue and fine sawdust, tightened with film or tape and left to dry.
Minor damage is repaired with epoxy-based putty.
Painting the frame.
In the classic version, prepared and dried Viennese chairs are varnished. To give the desired shade, we apply water-based stain two or three times until a durable, single-color coating is achieved. After drying, we apply colorless furniture varnish to the stained surfaces.
If desired, you can paint the products in light or bright colors that match the style of the room.
Decorating options:
Decoupage. To decorate Viennese chairs using the decoupage technique, it is better to paint them white or light pastel colors.
Decorative napkins, wallpaper scraps, and magazine clippings can be used as appliques.
Glue the selected designs or patterns onto the prepared surface, smoothing them out carefully from the center to the edges, avoiding bubbles. After the glue has dried, cover the surface with clear varnish in 2-3 layers.
The seat can be made soft and decorated with fabric. To do this, place the seat on a piece of foam rubber and cut out the blank with a knife. Using scissors, cut out the upholstery fabric along the contour of the seat, leaving 8-10 centimeters on each side for hems.
Place the upholstery fabric face down on a flat surface. Place the foam rubber in the center, and place the seat, coated with glue, on top of it. Fold the edges of the fabric to the back side, pulling evenly and securing with staples. It is important to choose upholstery that harmonizes with other interior elements.
You can also decorate Viennese chairs during restoration using molded details, applying patina or craquelure, or relief patterns made using stencils.
When starting restoration, listen to the advice of restorers, which you can find on popular websites:
When restoring wooden items, it is important to sand the items along the wood grain to avoid transverse scratches.
When disassembling furniture, mark each frame element to avoid confusion during assembly.
If you need to restore a lost piece of furniture, select a material with the same structure and density as the original item.
To restore expensive antique Viennese chairs, use shellac, which gives the product a noble, beautiful, and even shine.
Legs damaged at the bottom can be cut off, slightly shortening them, but returning their original beauty.
Restoration will help restore old Viennese chairs that have lost their strength and external gloss.
It will allow you to bring your creative ideas to life and create unique, inimitable things in accordance with your tastes and preferences.
