Learn about clay plaster with Biolithic Builds! This hands-on workshop will teach you how to formulate and apply a durable and beautiful earthen wall finish from local soil, straw, and sand. We will focus on the base coat, but I’ll also demonstrate the finishing coats.

At this July session, they’ll also discuss and see how lime and lime-clay plasters are made, giving a more complete overview of natural plaster options.

This is a hands-on workshop: in each step, you will get tactile experience with the materials. Clay plaster is one of the most delightful natural building materials to work with: cool, squishy, clayey, and just begging to be frosted onto a wall like a giant cake. You’ll have the opportunity to apply your new skills in real time by plastering a light straw-clay tiny house! This makes for a great setting to talk about the broader context of clay in wall systems, and the compatibility between different materials.

What you’ll learn

Participants will gain practical experience in:

• Formulating clay plaster from local soil, straw, and sand
• Applying base coats and finishing coats
• Understanding lime and lime-clay plaster techniques
• Pigmenting and carving techniques
• Science of clay plaster and its sustainability benefits
• Age-old history and modern applications

Event Details

• Date: July 19, 2025 (Saturday)
• Time: 1:00PM-4:00PM
• Location: Boston, MA
• Instructor: Biolithic Builds
• Cost: TBD
• Capacity: Limited spots for high quality, small class experience

Workshop/Event Agenda

• Introduction to clay plaster materials and science
• Hands-on formulation of earthen wall finishes
• Base coat application demonstration
• Finishing coat techniques
• Lime and lime-clay plaster overview
• Real-time application on straw-clay tiny house
• Pigmenting and carving demonstrations

Registration

• RSVP: Register here
• Contact: Follow Biolithic Builds for updates

Organized by Biolithic Builds.