Using Natural Finishes: A Step-by-Step Guide

With the increasing awareness of eco-building techniques alongside the desire to make our homes healthier, the historical benefits of using natural renders and paints are being rediscovered. Using Natural Finishes is an in-depth guide to the selection, mixing and application of lime and clay based plasters, renders, paints and washes. Providing step-by-step instructions with detailed illustrations to show the practical elements of working with lime and clay-based finishes, the authors demonstrate how these natural breathable plasters and paints can be used on a wide variety of wall surfaces, including traditional and eco-build materials like cob, strawbale and stone, as well as modern plasterboard and concrete surfaces, with stunning results. Easy to follow DIY projects guide the reader through all aspects of using these natural finishes, with beautiful photographs of techniques and examples from the UK and abroad. Key words: cob, eco-building, natural building, strawbale, earthen plasters, earth plasters, clay plasters, natural paints, sustainable building, lime plasters, lime paints, lime wash, alis, casein, clay paints, eco paints, green paints.

Adam Weismann and Katy Bryce run their own building company in Cornwall. They have built and restored many cob buildings, including two-story houses, small studios, and garden rooms, outside courtyards, fireplaces, and earth ovens. In 2003 they won a Pioneers to the Nation award from Queen Elizabeth II. They live in Manaccan, Cornwall, England.