This three-day course, led by Esme Walker and Caitlin McNamara, covered the theory, practical and experimental use of rendering with lime. The workshop welcomed people of all building abilities, beginners as well as experienced practitioners. All materials and equipment were provided.

This workshop covered the theory, practical and experimental use of applying and finishing lime render. This included the underpinning principles of the lime cycle and safety; building preparation; stippling and scratch coats; second coats; levelling and sponge floating; pargetry and harling techniques; a lecture by Material Cultures; and expert answers to questions about attendee's own lime render project.

Esme Walker is a traditional plasterer specialising in lime and decorative plasterwork which takes her to Grade I listed conservation projects and new builds alike. One week she may be on a straw bale roundhouse in Wales wrestling plaster buckets off thirsty ponies and cows, whilst the next is spent in central London on the country’s landmarks. Her first introduction to lime came when she was ripping down a lath ceiling to make way for plasterboard. Lath and a good hairy lime plaster is now her favourite system to restore. She moved into the traditional building sector in her early 20s after leaving an office job and received the bulk of her training on the Prince’s Foundation Building Crafts Program where she travelled up and down the length of the UK undertaking placements with masters of the craft.