Lime Plastering and Rendering

Weekend Workshop

Discover and practice the best techniques for preparing stone walls, then rendering and plastering with lime

Lime is a naturally occurring material which has been used in construction for centuries, in the form of plasters, mortars, binders and paints. It is strong yet flexible, water repelling yet breathable, and it discourages mold and fungi growth. On this course, you’ll be in the safe hands of master stonemason Martin O’Malley.

Want to gift this skill to someone? Vouchers available here

On this course, you’ll learn:

The different types of Lime and their properties

Where and when lime should be used

The benefits this material offers in solid walled construction

Rendering and plastering techniques

Correct mixing ratios and different applications

What will I leave with?

The confidence and capability to start your own lime rendering and plastering works and repairs.

You will also leave with a connection to other likeminded learners, who you’ll be able to keep in touch with through a 12 month membership of our community app The Commonage included in your course fee.

What’s included?

The course fee of €380 fees cover tuition, the use of tools and materials, and two wholesome and nutritious daily meals each day curated by our on-site chef, as well as tea, coffee and cake when it is most needed. *There is mandatory site safety gear required to participate in this course, please see below.

Additional Information

  • We will provide you with a loan of a hi-visibility vest for use when on-site. For your own safety, no loose-fitting clothing or shorts are permitted, and you should wear long sleeves.

    The following safety gear is required and mandatory to participate in the course:

    • Steel toe-capped boots. No trainers, shoes or wellies will be allowed on site due to risk of injury.

    • Protective gloves*

    • Safety glasses*

    Knee pads are also useful and will provide greater comfort. You may already have many of these items or want to pick them up yourself. These items are available in our optional Masonry Site & Safety Kit. This is available to purchase as an add on to your course ticket.

  • For more information about booking a course, accommodation options, and preparing for your course at Common Knowledge, see our FAQs page.

Staying at The Common Knowledge Centre

We now have a range of accommodation options on site to suit all budgets and needs. You can view available accommodation on our booking page.

Instructing this course

  • Martin O'Malley

    Martin is a qualified block and bricklayer and a Master Stonemason. In recent years Martin has chosen to combine this trade with his artistic side by carving stone and bogoak.

    He also helps people with disabilities to build confidence and express their creative side by participating in projects, nurturing inclusivity and improved physical and mental health through creativity.

    Martin is passionate about the environment and gives biodiversity talks locally and in the Galway county. He hosts woodcarving classes and biodiversity talks on his farm where he takes people out of the classroom into nature. Martin is currently embarking on his journey to become an organic farmer. He aims to cover at least one third of his farm with native broadleaf trees which he plans to hug for his remaining days!

Want to gift this skill to someone you love?

Gift Vouchers available here