Master the Art of Materials in Design
Transform your design projects with expert insights and practical guidance on selecting the perfect materials for every creation. Click the Enroll Button below to elevate your craft.
Learn insider tips and professional secrets from Austin Kerr, the trusted restorer for Design Miami, to make smarter decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and bring your vision to life. For over 26 years, Austin Kerr has worked with top architects, designers, and galleries, restoring some of the most significant collectible design pieces in the world. With this world-class experience he brings unparalleled expertise to this course.
Product Knowledge is Paramount!
Who is This Course For?
Furniture Makers: Take your craftsmanship to the next level.
Interior Designers & Architects: Avoid costly mistakes and spec the right materials.
DIY Enthusiasts & Furniture Flippers: Turn your passion into professional-quality work.
Restoration Enthusiasts: Bring new life to old or damaged pieces with confidence.
Why This Course is Your Next Big Step
Deepen your understanding of materials to make informed choices that enhance aesthetics and functionality.
Learn how to prevent expensive design errors, delays, and maintenance issues that could frustrate clients.
Access cutting-edge methods for wood finishing, touch-up products, and advanced adhesive techniques
Benefit from a comprehensive resource library to support ongoing application and learning
Position yourself as an expert in material applications, gaining a competitive edge in interior design and restoration.
Who is Austin Kerr?
“I Began My Journey In Restoration At Just Six Years Old, Creating Antique Reproduction Finishes Under The Guidance Of Master Craftspeople In My Family’s Thriving Furniture Business. This Early Exposure To The Art Of Craftsmanship Instilled In Me A Lifelong Passion For Understanding Materials, Techniques, And The Stories Behind Every Piece. What Started As A Childhood Curiosity Has Evolved Into Decades Of Professional Expertise, Allowing Me To Restore Some Of The World’s Most Valuable Collectible Designs With Precision And Care.
Today, As The Official Restorer For Design Miami, I Bring Global Recognition And Unparalleled Expertise To Every Project. My Work Is Trusted By Leading Galleries, Collectors, And Designers Around The World, Not Only For Its Technical Excellence But Also For My Dedication To Preserving The Integrity And History Of Each Piece.”
What’s Inside the Course?
-
Discover the expertise of Austin Kerr and how mastering material knowledge can transform your design projects. This foundational chapter explains the critical importance of understanding materials and how it sets you apart in the design industry.
-
Gain insights into the unique properties of wood, from growth rings to structural impacts, and learn to select the best materials for any project. Explore the key differences between paint-grade and stain-grade wood, cuts, and how wood reacts to environmental changes.
-
Learn the secrets to durable and flawless finishes by understanding the properties and applications of primers, sealers, and UV-protective coatings. This chapter provides practical tips for both residential and commercial projects, ensuring long-lasting results.
-
Master the art of choosing he right adhesive for every project, from wood glue to epoxy and contact cement. Avoid common pitfalls with step-by-step guidance on bonding techniques that enhance durability and precision.
-
Discover how to achieve smooth, professional finishes with a detailed look at abrasives and sanding tools. Learn about grit levels, sanding pads, and techniques for both raw and high-polish finishes.
-
Explore the transformative power of stains and finishes, with tips for creating depth, uniform color, and enhancing natural wood grains. This chapter explains how to select and apply stains for any aesthetic or functional requirement.
-
Uncover the best techniques for removing old finishes and lightening wood surfaces safely and efficiently. This chapter demystifies the tools and chemical processes needed for restoration and refinishing.
-
Equip yourself with professional tools and techniques to restore furniture to its original beauty. This chapter covers everything from markers and fill sticks to restoration finishes, ensuring seamless repairs for any surface.
-
Get an insider’s guide to the essential tools every designer and maker should have. Learn how to set up your workspace for maximum efficiency and explore tips for maintaining and using your tools like a pro.
-
Uncover the truth behind common myths about lacquer finishes, durability, and repairability. This chapter demystifies lacquer's versatility, debunks durability concerns, and highlights its adaptability, making it a go-to choice for high-quality finishes.
FAQ’s
-
This course is designed for all knowledge levels, providing clear, actionable guidance and advanced insights that cater to beginners seeking foundational skills as well as seasoned professionals looking to refine their expertise and stay ahead in the industry.
-
With lifetime access to this course, you can revisit the material at any time, ensuring you have an enduring resource to refine your skills, tackle new challenges, and stay confident in your craft as your projects evolve.
-
This concise 90-minute course is expertly structured to deliver a comprehensive understanding of materials and techniques, allowing you to quickly gain actionable insights without compromising on depth or quality.
-
Real-World Applications
Gain skills and knowledge you can immediately apply to your projects
-
Expert-Led Guidance
Learn directly from Austin Kerr, whose work is trusted by top galleries and designers.
-
Lifetime Access
Revisit the lessons anytime and continue learning at your own pace.
Materials in Design Masterclass
$149
One-Time Price
Lifetime Access to all modules
Expert-Led Guidance
Additional Resources
Working With Austin; Testimonials
-
Simon Stewart, Founder/Creative Director Charles Burnand Gallery
"Over the many years that I have been working in the industry, I have never met a restorer with such an extraordinary skill set that Austin Kerr possesses. His understanding of materials and attention to detail is truly world class. I would have no hesitation in recommending Austin to anyone who is need of restoration work on collectible design pieces...he is quite simply the best in the industry."
-
Jen Roberts, CEO Of Design Miami
“Austin is an excellent restorer. For many years, Austin has restored dozens if not hundreds of precious and valuable items from historic to contemporary works for my clients and at times for myself. He is honest, fair and reasonably priced. I rarely recommend people but Austin is a gem and takes pride in doing a superior job. As far as ability and follow through, I know I can trust Austin completely. If he can't do something, he will say so.”
-
Moderne Gallery
“Austin’s deep understanding of materials, combined with his extensive experience, makes him an invaluable asset to the gallery. He has an exceptional ability to diagnose and resolve issues more quickly and effectively than anyone I’ve worked with.“
“ He has an exceptional ability to diagnose and resolve issues more quickly and effectively than anyone I’ve worked with.”
— Moderne Gallery
“Exceptional work. As meticulous and attentive as it gets. Impeccable customer care. Punctual delivery. Able to work with the most challenging pieces from micro/surgical-like details, wider touch-ups and repairs to complete refinishing. 100% Recommended.”
— Melanie Courbet
“I rarely recommend people but Austin is a gem and takes pride in doing a superior job. As far as ability and follow through, I know I can trust Austin completely.”
— Jen Roberts, Design Miami CEO
“He is on my Dream Team of problem-solving colleagues, and I look forward to working with him again.”
— David Parker
1:1 Consultations
Struggling to decide on materials or techniques to elevate your project? Get professional guidance from a restoration expert today.
Unlock insights with a 30-minute consultation from collectible design and restoration specialist Austin Kerr, tailored to your unique project needs.
