Introduction to Cob & Natural Plasters

►Learn to Build Load Bearing Cob Walls
►Sculpt Niches and Build Furniture
►Work with Natural Plasters & Pigments
$189 includes registration, camping & meals. Children 10 & under half price. $118 – 30 days advance pay.

Sept 4 & 5, 2010

Building cob walls
During this part of the workshop we will learn how to build cob walls strong enough to set your roof on, including building a sleeping loft, setting beams and rafters in cob for a roof, and ‘learn by doing’ as we:

- Choose materials and mix cob
- Build a lintel over the door
- Set plate & floor joists for loft
- Build loft floor

Sculptural cob
During this part of the workshop we will learn how to sculpt and trim, as well as use cob to build furniture, including building a couch, a bench for a breakfast nook, and ‘learn by doing’ as we:

- Mix corbel cob
- Cantilever furniture seats
- Work with niches to create bookshelves
- Create sculptures in the walls

Natural Plaster
Working with natural plasters is perhaps the most rewarding aspect of creating an earthen structure. It is the dessert after the main course of building with cob. We will be working with natural mineral pigments to create various colors and effects.

* We will start each day with breakfast, and begin building at 9:00. We will break for lunch at 12:00, and work will end at 5:30 to allow time for showers before supper at 6:30.

* We suggest out of town participants arrive Friday evening to set up camp. Local folks are encouraged to camp too. We will begin promptly at 9:00 Saturday morning.

* We will provide and eat three meals a day together both days of the workshop.

This post was submitted by Diane Jennings.