Description:   Spend 3 days learning how to build strong, thin infill walls using branches and covering them in a clay soil mixture.  Then fine-tune the shape of the walls with a basic clay plaster made from site-harvested soil.

What is Wattle & Daub?

Before we had drywall, there was wood lath strips with plaster on it. And before that, there was wattle & daub. Wattle refers to a woven armature...basically you weave the wall you want to build. The daub, is the sticky clay mixture. Usually with ample fiber in it. Daub is smooshed around the woven armature to create a reinforced clay wall, that is thin yet strong & durable. We'll use materials harvested from our property so the walls will be economical as well as environmentally friendly.

What you learn:             

• how to build a strong woven formwork for clay walls

• understanding ingredients for daubing & clay plaster

• how to test soil for clay content (& other sources of clay)

• how to figure out your recipe

• mixing techniques

• how to apply clay daubing to a woven wall

• plastering techniques & tips

Project: We will infill a wood frame structure with wattle & daub walls to create an outdoor shower.  And then shape the walls nicely with a basic clay plaster.  (We’ll also build an integrated shelf out of clay!) We'll also do one section with more traditional wood lath, so you can experience the full evolution of materials.

This course is for you if… you want to learn how to make thinner, inexpensive, durable, infill walls out of site-harvested materials.  This technique is so versatile, and can be used to make interior walls, shelves, and more!!

What's Included:

✓ hands-on experience weaving wattle and applying clay daubing & high-fiber clay plaster

✓ one-on-one technique guidance from Sigi

✓ ample time for questions

✓ browse books in my library

✓ healthy lunch

✓ free tent camping onsite