Lime Plasters

Instructors: Jacob Racusin and Kelly Cutchin

Course Description: The use of lime in building dates back to 4000 BC, when the Egyptians used it to plaster the pyramids. Lime continues to be used today across the world in a variety of applications in the building process. During this course, we will look at the chemical and physical properties of traditional lime-based and lime-stabilized plasters. Discovery of the material will come through classroom discussion, as well as lots of hands-on practice. Students will learn about the working properties of lime as a wall render, and learn about the correct selection, safety, mixing, application, and maintenance of lime-based and lime-stabilized plasters.

Suggested reading: Building with Lime , by Stafford Holmes and Michael Wingate

What to bring: Hawk and plaster trowel (4x10" recommended) we will supply trowels if needed

Eye protection (goggles)

Mason's gloves or other protective tight-fitting handwear

Dust mask

What to wear:

Work clothes

Draft Schedule:

Day 1: AM: Introductions

Discussion on lime: history, chemistry, uses, safety

Mixing Renders

PM: mixing renders (cont.)

Applying renders

Day 2: AM: Applying renders (cont.)

Finishing the plaster

Clean-up

Finish discussion/Q+A