Natural Plasters and Finishes – Aug 24, 2026

Natural Plasters and Finishes

Beginner

Aug 24-28, 2026

Main Campus in Waitsfield, VT

5 Class Days

$1,350.00 Tuition

Register

Learn about sliding scale tuition

A person wearing an orange cap and neck gaiter carefully applies a smooth layer of reddish-brown clay plaster to a wall using a trowel. Another person’s hand is visible in the background, also plastering.

An exploration of natural, nontoxic wall finishes

This course will take place as a one-week module of our Natural Building Certificate. 

Finishing walls with natural, nontoxic products imparts a number of benefits to a building, whether you are working on a plastered strawbale wall, or interior gypsum wall board. The ingredients are simple and safe, the process is creative and fun, and the possibilities are endless! In this course, we will look at the art, science and practice of making your own paints, washes, and other finishes with clay, lime, casein, wheat paste, mica, sand, pigments, oils and other natural materials. Students will be introduced to a variety of materials and their working properties, as well as gain a solid understanding of the basics of where and how to apply these products to different wall systems. This class will be mostly hands-on, with discussion ongoing throughout the course.

Read Syllabus

Beginner

Aug 24-28, 2026

Main Campus in Waitsfield, VT

5 Class Days

$1,350.00 Tuition

Register

Learn about sliding scale tuition

Class Schedule

Monday - Friday
9am-5pm

Project Gallery

A plastered wall in two tones with shadow falling along the lines of the color blocks.
Detail shot of the wall of an outdoor garden shed with tadelakt wall and vegetable design
Detail shot of hands mixing straw and clay
A photo of a job site with many people working. The image centers on three people apply a reddish brown plaster to the corner of a building.

Instructors

Sliding Scale Tuition

The implementation of a sliding scale is part of our commitment to economic justice and continued equity within education. Students can select the rate that applies best to their situation during registration.

Tier 1


Tuition Assistance: 65% reduced rate

Paying for this course presents a significant financial hardship. 

Tier 2


Tuition Assistance: 85% reduced rate

Paying full price for this course presents somewhat of a financial hardship. 

Tier 3


Full Tuition
Paying this price may be a sacrifice, but I can find the resources to do so. 

Tier 4


Your Tuition & Help Another: Full Tuition + 15%

Paying for this course does not present a significant financial sacrifice. I have the ability to redistribute resources and increase access for others. 

Tier 5

Your Tuition & Help Another: Full Tuition + 40%
Paying for this course does not present any financial sacrifice. I have the ability to redistribute resources and increase access for others. 

Meals & Lodging

  • Lodging
    Ranges from $15 - $60 per day depending on season and which type of housing you select
    Learn More
  • Meals
    $20-$55 per day
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