About Us

Faux By Kathy is a name in the faux and decorative painting industry that has been around for decades. Originally started by Kathy, the business changed hands in 2020 when, after 30 years at this location, she retired. Away went Chicago Institute of Fine Finishes, and thus Chicago Decorative Works was born.

Liz has taken over sole ownership and operations since then.

I started working here in 2016 in back of house pouring, packing and shipping orders. Soon I transitioned to tinting and mixing and picked up my first trowel to begin learning techniques through sample making. With no previous formal training and a lot of trial and error, I am an example that time, practice, and effort can teach you so much. Keep going!

Faux By Kathy's physical warehouse, Chicago Decorative Works, formerly Chicago Institute of Fine Finishes, is located in Carol Stream, IL. We have a classroom with work stations to learn samples and remain one of the only studios in the country that offers custom classes picked by you for your market in our private one on one classes. 

I do not apply any finishes in clients' homes at this time, I only teach techniques and provide products. If you are in need of a skilled finisher to do a job for you please reach out with details to my email - liz@fauxbykathy.com - including general location, desired look, room size and availability window and I will look through my rolodex and suggest professional finishers who may suit your project. 

The studio is currently in the midst of a full overhaul, photos detailing progress can be found on Pinterest, and classes have been put on hold until further notice. To all my supportive finishers, I appreciate your patience and individual, group, and virtual classes are in the works! I'll inform you via newsletter and social media of their return so please consider subscribing to stay in the know!

Thanks for being here and supporting my small business while maybe growing your own!