Hello, my name is Mary Svenson. My journey in the decorative painting field began in 1982. As a young mother with a new home, I became aware of decorative painted pieces and wondered just how it was done. Initially my studies in decorative painting were self-taught with the aid of a couple of books and in the oil medium. Later, I took formal classes in acrylics. In 1983 I joined the Society of Decorative Painters and have since earned a CDA (Certified Decorative Artist),and Master Stroke and Master Floral.catafories of the MDA ( Master Decorative Artist).

The Tole Sampler is the name of my home studio from which I have been teaching decorative painting for 30 years. I have taught at numerous conventions including SDP. HOOT, and NET. In more recent years I have been designing and marketing pattern packets in both acrylics and oils. I was the design artist for New England Traditions (NET) in 2000,completed my first book, "A New England Tole Sampler" in 2002, and had an ornament selected for the White House in 2004.

I was born and raised in Massachusetts. My husband, Rick, and I have rasied two sons and a few pets along the way. After residing 25 years in Westford, Rick and I recently sold our home and moved into our new home in Cotuit, MA on Cape Cod. Of course the studio came along too. For me decorative painting has and will continue to enrich my life with challenges, growth, friendships and enjoyment. I look forward to teaching, designing, and being inspired in this new location. When I am not painting or busy with the family, you might find me in my gardens. You can write to me at 34 Dovetail Lane, Cotuit, MA 02635 or e-mail me at Mary@Tolesampler.com.