Introduction to Dry Stone Walling - 2 days
Description
Introduction to dry stone walling course. Over the two days you will learn the basic construction of a dry stone wall, how to place secure footings, to place stones to a line and batter, the use of throughstones and copes and, most importantly, what makes it stay up without any mortar. The theory is simple, but it takes practice to do it well, and so most of the course will be hands-on and practical. The emphasis will be on teamwork and safe working and there will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get individual feedback. Your tutor on this course will be Tim Mason, a Dry-Stone Walling Association Advanced Level Waller. Prior to the last twelve years, spent walling, Tim taught in secondary schools for 20 years, and so teaching walling combines two of his great loves Dry stone walling has taken place in the UK for over 3500 years, and each region has developed its own techniques and styles to make best use of the local stone. From the slates of the Lake District, through the familiar Yorkshire sandstone, to the random limestone of Derbyshire each stone lends itself to different style. We will be using oolitic limestone, quarried near Stamford, and building walls in the style of the limestone belt that runs through the Cotswolds, through Northants and up into Lincolnshire. The walls here do not have to be high, as rich grazing means that the southern sheep are less inclined to clamber over, and the thinner bedded stone available leads to the distinctive look of Cotswold farmland. The course takes place in and around the purpose built oak framed craft barn at Stanwick Lakes which is managed by Rockingham Forest Trust as an environmental charity. Stanwick Lakes is a protected Nature Reserve and a Wetland of International Importance, covering 750 acres of open space with seven miles of paths, a perfect inspiration to crafters and makers. During your lunchtime you can enjoy the onsite cafés and visit the heritage museum, or sit by a lake and watch the wildlife. Please note that though the course should be accessible to any moderately fit and active person, walling is an inherently physical activity. We will be moving stones, and some of these will be heavy. It is essential that you have the following equipment: • Boots or shoes with toe caps – when you drop a stone it won’t completely spoil your weekend! • Gloves - builders type gloves are good and cheap. Safety glasses and all walling equipment will be supplied, but don’t forget: • Work clothes – i.e. something that is durable and you don’t mind getting dusty or muddy. • Waterproofs – the course will go ahead unless it is pouring with rain. There will be shelter available during breaks, etc, but come prepared. • Sun hat/sun lotion.
What's included in the price?
Please note when booked this includes both days as this is a 2 day course. Tools, materials and safety equipment are provided. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided free of charge during the course. Food and drinks can be purchased in the café in the Visitor Centre or bring your own packed lunch. Your car parking is also free of charge on the day of your course. Please note if you are purchasing food from our Cafe, a pre-order form will be available on the morning of the course (a selection of paninis, sandwiches, jacket potatoes etc are available) so we can have your food freshly prepared for you.
Duration
6 hours
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
At Stanwick Lakes, we offer a range of Arts & Crafts and Heritage Courses, from watercolour painting classes to blacksmithing and wood-carving workshops. Alongside offering craft courses, Stanwick Lakes is a unique 750 acre nature reserve and countryside attraction located in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley.
