Straw Bale & Clay Plaster Workshop

The built environment accounts for 37% of global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions. Everything from the extraction, production, and transport to how we demolish and waste materials used for our houses, pubs, libraries, offices, schools and theatres has an impact.

Can using materials from the earth with minimal processing reduce these impacts of production and the waste of materials? We're working with natural materials to reimagine a regenerative world.

Straw Bale and Clay Plaster

Learn how straw can be an insulator, the basics of working with bales, and how to plaster onto them or your walls.

Who are the workshops for?

Anyone interested in working with natural materials - whether you work in the construction industry or not. These workshops are open to older children with the supervisor of an adults; as we will be discussing technique and material choices, these workshops are not suggested for young kids. (There will be a free art workshop October 26th for another component of the installation that is open to adults and children of all ages)

Who is running the workshops

Joe Duirwyn has over 20 years experience in natural, low carbon construction. Currently the Project manager at Baldwin Building Services he also offers low carbon design consulting services through his non-profit business We Make Good. In the past, he was director of Hartwyn Construction. He continues to build and teaches how to build straw bale houses.

Kiki Callihan is currently a student at the Centre for Alternative Technology studying Green Building. Primarily interested in how systems can better everyone’ lives and the health of the planet, she likes to imagine what changes to the built environment can make a lasting impact. In the past, she focused on what to do with materials once discarded and has built businesses and creative projects with waste. Kiki designed the art installation for Light Up Lancaster.

Materials Provided & what to wear

We have gloves, masks and eye protection available. However, we suggest bringing your own gloves if possible to ensure a proper fit.

We will be playing with messy materials and will be outside and under a tent the entire time. So please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Boots or wellies are also recommended. Wear layers and rain jackets if the weather is going to be cold or rainy.

We will provide snacks, hot drinks and water at the workshops, if you want something specific please bring it. If you sign up for two workshops on the same day, please bring a lunch during the break.

Location and Accessibility

Because the workshop location is private residence, we will send out address and instructions once you've registered. The location is near Canterbury Avenue, Lancaster.

The workshops will take place on uneven and often muddy ground.