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 mould and fungi growth.
Whether you’re restoring a stone building, working on a self-build, or simply curious about time-tested materials, this course will give you the confidence to start (or continue) working with lime.
Who is this course for?
This course is open to complete beginners and those looking to advance their plastering technique. The skills learned during this course are readily transferable to plastering and pointing in cement. No previous experience needed just an interest in heritage building skills and a willingness to get your hands messy.
You can also purchase this course as a gift here.
What will you learn?
Over two hands-on days, this course introduces you to two essential traditional lime techniques: lime plastering, used for breathable and beautiful internal and external finishes in older buildings, and lime pointing, which protects, preserves and strengthens stone walls while allowing them to move and breathe naturally.
On this course you will 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
Preparing different wall substrates to receive plaster
What will you take away?
After the weekend you will leave with:
An understanding of how to mix lime, the ratios needed for both internal and external walls
The confidence and capability to start your own lime plastering and pointing works and repairs.
The skills to rake out old mortar, prepare joints, and repoint using correct techniques
A connection to other like-minded learners
How is the course structured?
We start each day with breakfast at 8:30 and eat lunch together at 1pm. Both days will involve a very hands-on approach to learning.
On Day 1 the focus is on lime pointing, the careful repair and finishing of stone joints, typically seen on the exterior of cottages, boundary walls and stone barns across Ireland. You’ll learn how to rake out old mortar, prepare joints, and repoint using the correct tools and methods.
On Day 2 you’ll work with lime plaster, learning how to mix, apply and finish coats for internal or external walls. This ancient technique is still the best way to maintain healthy, breathable surfaces in heritage and natural buildings and is increasingly relevant in modern low-impact homes looking to eliminate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and improve air quality.
What’s included?
The course fee covers 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.
Staying with us at The Common Knowledge Centre
At The Common Knowledge Centre we now have a range of accommodation options on site to suit all budgets and needs. When you stay with us, you’ll be supporting our newly established guesthouse and be close to the action. We recommend arriving the evening before your course. You can view available accommodation on our booking page.
More information
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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 when in the workshop. The following safety gear is required and mandatory to participate in the course:
Waterproof gloves
Protective gloves
Safety glasses
Dust Mask
You may already have some of these items or want to pick them up yourself. These items are available in our optional Site & Safety Kit that comes in a Common Knowledge tote bag. These are available to purchase when you arrive at Common Knowledge.
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For more information about booking a course, accommodation options, and preparing for your course at Common Knowledge, see our
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Course Instructors
