2026 Convention Agenda

Of all the skills necessary to become a master wallcovering installer, trimming of untrimmed wallcoverings, as well as trimming of grasses, weaves and textiles for balanced installations is one of the most crucial. This half-day session, led by seasoned veteran installer Shawn Lawler, focuses on the steps and procedures required to obtain the finest matches and seams possible when installing untrimmed materials. This is a hands-on class, and attendees will be able to work with multiple wallpapers and be guided in the nuances of this important skillset.

Learn to create beautiful ceilings using stripes, grasscloths and other directional wallcoverings. From small accents to full sized room ceilings, there are several ways to make a room come alive with a special ceiling treatment. Phil Reinhard will lead this class, covering everything from recognizing the opportunity to sell a concept to a designer, through the estimating process and design choice, and all the way through the installation of four different patterns of mitered ceilings. Attendees will have the opportunity to create and install mitered panels, and develop a special skillset that will set them apart from other installers.

Grasscloth and other natural fiber wallcoverings present a unique challenge to installers. Each individual panel of these materials is different from every other panel and has its own unique look. Max Kahan, an installer with a fine arts background, will lead this session through the process of laying out a job in such a way that the paneled effect enhances the room, and makes each individual installation a custom work of art. This half-day course meshes perfectly with the Table Trimming course, and taking both classes is an opportunity to hone technical skills and develop an artistic approach to wallcovering installation that will immediately pay huge dividends.

Learn to create beautiful ceilings using stripes, grasscloths and other directional wallcoverings. From small accents to full sized room ceilings, there are several ways to make a room come alive with a special ceiling treatment. Phil Reinhard will lead this class, covering everything from recognizing the opportunity to sell a concept to a designer, through the estimating process and design choice, and all the way through the installation of four different patterns of mitered ceilings. Attendees will have the opportunity to create and install mitered panels, and develop a special skillset that will set them apart from other installers.