Since the course started in January it has been an exciting journey of learning with the March course on Mass, marking the halfway stage and it was a heavy weight week!
As a quality, mass that is in cob and earth and stone literally gives great depth and character to the learning experience and to the walls and building we are making together.
Techniques learnt in the previous two modules are all being woven into this new structure. Our students have learned to work with a variety of materials, such as wood, natural fibres, and stone. 40 Oak pegs have been shaved with draw knives by the students and will be used to hold the roof structure together. Following an analysis of river sand the students have learnt how to blend the sand with chippings from a quarry here on the Dartington estate in order to make a lime pointing mix for the stone wall plinth.
One of the features of the course is to have projects large and small e.g. weaving a bread basket, carving a plate or making a coracle boat. These varied projects give students the skills to tackle bigger project such as house building.
Artist’s sketchbooks have also been used for creative development as part of the course and to record learning. The students have used these sketchbooks to capture the inspirations and ideas using sketches and notes. Heater Scott, a student on the course says that on this week’s course she has learnt pointing, theory on aggregates, and chemistry! She says that working with natural materials is much more intuitive and to learn from tutors who are so passionate has been inspiring.
This week sees the start of Module 4 which looks at Insulation in Natural Building. The course is now fully booked however there a few places left on the following courses:
Natural plasters and finishes
Ecological Design
Self-build, Community build, Planning and Building Regulations
For further information about the courses please email:
valerie.lancaster@dartington.org
