residential weekend course

cob building

venue: Redfield Community, Bucks

The course will aim to introduce methods of earth / cob building, and will include theory and practice with short demonstrations; however, the emphasis will be on hands-on learning. You will find space for fun and creativity and expect a workout for the body and mind! Participants should leave feeling confident in their ability to build with cob and to make and apply an earthen plaster.

During the weekend you will:

  • explore the advantages of building with earth in general
  • learn the essential aspects of building with, as well as ways of sculpting and finishing cob
  • learn how to make and apply an earthen plaster, which will include some cob bas relief sculpture
  • learn about materials, where to locate them and how to test them
  • learn about relevant tools
  • learn about earth ovens, including building, firing and cooking
  • see a slide-show which will give you some inspiring ideas for your own cob structures
  • learn more about the possibilities that this versatile material has to offer

more on cob building


how to book:
 

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arrive:
 
Friday evening at 6.30 for dinner at 7.30
depart:
 
Sunday after lunch (served at 1.00)
directions:
 
click here for directions by bicycle, public transport and car
what to bring:
 
pen and notebook; towel; work clothes or overalls; boots / wellies; money for possible trip to pub (meals and bedding are provided)
NO DOGS PLEASE, as we have sheep
let us know:
 
if you are vegan or have any food allergies
accommodation:
 
3-4 people sharing single-sex rooms
sat evening:
 
either a trip to the pub in Winslow, or (depending on the weather) a barbecue and bonfire. You'll be able to meet and chat with other Redfield members
prices:
 
£190 high-waged; £160 waged;
£130 student / unwaged
Refundable up to two weeks prior to course (minus £30 admin fee)
No refunds for cancellations within two weeks of course
discounts:
 
car sharing:
 
visit our car sharing forum to offer or request a lift
 

 

 

 


building the cob walls of an earth oven

 

 

 

 

 


high-tech method of mixing cob!

 

 

 

 

 


plastering detail