Three Generations of Plaster Craftsmen
Orlandini Studios, keeping the art of plaster casting alive.
Our Story
Established in Milwaukee in 1936, Orlandini Studios has been creating fine ornamental plaster for new construction and renovation for over 80 years. We use the same methods and materials used by plasterers for centuries with improvements as warranted.
Matthew & Julian Orlandini at home in Milwaukee, 1954
Matthew Orlandini emigrated from Italy as a boy and learned the plastering trade in New Jersey. As a master, he set off to Minneapolis, but during a stop in Milwaukee he met the young woman who would be his wife and decided to stay there. He founded the company then known as Decorative Supply Inc, and sold plaster to the masses.
In 1964, the business relocated to its current home in the Walker’s Point area of Milwaukee. Matthew’s son Julian took the lead role in preparing the new business location, converting a house into shop, office, and living quarters. Shortly after that, he purchased the business from his father and changed its name to Orlandini Studios Ltd.
Matthew Orlandini in the old Milwaukee shop, 1945
Matthew & Julian Orlandini in the studio, 1968
Plaster fell out of fashion in the 1960’s through the 80’s, but Julian was able to keep the business running through leaner times. When a new wave of architects and contractors came around to appreciating the beauty of old fashioned plaster, he was one of the few who knew how to restore and recreate the original work that had been damaged or covered up for decades.
By 2000, Julian had worked in hundreds of public buildings, churches, and private homes across the country. He had also trained dozens of apprentices, some of whom themselves carried on the trade. One of those was his nephew, Eugene, the current owner of Orlandini Studios.
Eugene has continued the same traditions of quality and care in the twenty years since he took over the business, while also incorporating new techniques learned from cement casters and painters. With his almost 40 years of experience working with plaster, Eugene has the skills to do anything the medium is capable of. We have an extensive library of ornamental pieces to fit any space. Crown molding, ceiling medallions, wall plaques, wall brackets, and more for every desire.
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Julian Orlandini working in the studio, 2000
Keeping Tradition Alive
At Orlandini Studios we use the same natural materials that plasterers have used for centuries: water, plaster, and sisal fiber for strength. Our molds are made from traditional hide glue which can be melted down and reused dozens of times. All materials are biodegradable and always have been.
Our techniques are part of that same legacy. How we build models for new molds, the tools we use to fill in gaps and repair damage, the methods for casting each piece have all been passed down through generations. Everything is made by hand one at a time; we use power tools only sparingly for installation.
We are involved with keeping the rich heritage of Milwaukee alive through its historical buildings and artwork.
The Art of Plaster
We are happy to have visitors during the week from 10am to 5pm, but since we are sometimes on-site doing installation work, it is best to call ahead and make an appointment. Come see our live catalog on the walls of the shop; maybe the perfect decor item is waiting for you!
Tours
