Clay Plaster workParty in Middletown, CA

Plaster Prep with Kyle Alexander-  Open Invitation, June 12-13

Scratch Coat Plastering Workparty,  June 14-15

Join us to apply clay plaster to straw bale walls! We will be plastering the interior and exterior walls of a new house in Middletown, Ca. 

This unique home was designed by Darrel DeBoer for load bearing bales, earthen floors, earth plaster inside and out and almost no concrete (just a little under door sills). Engineered very thoroughly by Darcy Messner and built by John Swearingen's Skillful Means. Located on an idyllic 40 acre property in Lake County.

During this weekend we will apply the scratch coat over the straw bale walls. Our primary goal is to get the scratch coat applied to the interior and exterior surfaces. There will be tasks for every skill level and plenty of learning opportunities. 

Kyle Alexander of Goldhill Plaster will be on-site on June 12-13 delivering the clay, helping to prepare the mix, and going over plaster prep. Anyone interested in joining in the plaster prep process for either of those days is very welcome! Camping available on-site on those days, but group meals are not being prepared on those days.

Cost:  Free! 

Meals:  Lunch and dinner provided on Saturday, breakfast and lunch provided on Sunday. Restaurants and groceries available nearby in Middletown.

Accommodations: Camping on-site. Bathrooms located on-site. Local hotels and short-term rentals are available nearby.  

Registration: https://www.strawbuilding.org/event-6211849

Site location, driving instruction and other information are provided with confirmation of registration.

Schedule: The workparty will begin at 9am and end each day at 5pm. 

For additional info contact Allison Arnold at allisonannearnold@gmail.com or 301-357-0582. 

Mark your calendar for the Brown Coat and Finish Coat Workshops!

Plaster Prep Open Invitation, June 12-13

Scratch Coat Plastering Workparty,  June 14-15

Brown Coat Workshop,  July 12-13

Finish Coat Workshop, August 2-3