Tabby...for those that live where there are LOTS of shells...

Hi Folks,

I have started this post and been sitting on it for some time. Then today, a colleague shared something with me better than what I was about to post:

Oyster Shell Tabby

I have worked with "Tabby" a few time when in my much younger days. I think it is one of the greatest forms of "natural building" still available today to those interested in sustainable architecture, and living in the south or where "shells" are extremely common. Tapia, (or tabia) and some of the forms of Bousillage, Bajareque, 小舞壁 (Komakikabe-wattle and daub) also incorporate this medium. I am sure there are others...

Please read and enjoy. I will answer any question to the best of my ability...

Regards,

j

Hi Jay,

Thanks for the link, I haven't been to Patrick's wonderful blog in quite some time. Very informative and highly readable; Real Finishes is the best plaster blog on the web!

There aren't many shells here, but we have lots of pumice. I have been talking with Hess Pumice about a similar type of infill system utilizing coarse pumice and hydrated lime, but after reading this, I think I'll try quicklime instead.

All Blessings,
Bill

Bill...I have wanted to get you and Patrick connected on "LinkedIn" for sometime and I keep forgetting to introduce you. He is without question, one of the most knowledgeable and accomplished "traditional plasters" in the country. I believe now he makes his living full time teaching the craft...

You should post on his blog and introduce yourself...he is a great person to correspond with and learn from...

Regards,

j

Well that would be great, I should use LinkedIn more, but I seem to spend all of my free time here. I really love the way that Patrick is always learning more and that he is a student of stone work at the same school where he teaches plaster.

I've actually been talking with my plaster guru, Stan Petersen, about starting a plaster school out here when he and Patrick's friend and colleague Ryan Chivers moves back to Utah next week. He is tired of working for the 1% as well. They pay well and the work has a large budget, so can be quite beautiful, but it is a lot more rewarding experience to help the average family to live with good air and comfortable humidity and temperature.

All Blessings,
Bill

Criminy Bill, the older I get the smaller the world seems to shrink...

Ryan teaches here in Vermont at the same school some of my own students have taught at...Yestermorrow. I have known Ryan for...??...I am not sure where we crossed paths first...? He and I are also "connected" on LinkedIn, as well, and I am sure you have seen his web page...Ryan Chivers

Being here is great, and I too love helping folks, but for "professional" connections and support, LinkedIn has become invaluable, as it gives you a "global" perspective and view point. You must make the time for your own development and professional status...it only takes a few minutes a day or an hour per week at most to "stay in touch." I belong to over 30 professional groups and own/moderate one of the larger ones. I have as many connections in Europe and the U.K. as I do here in North America. I would say half of my 5000 plus members on Architecture and Vintage Materials Conservation, Restoration and Reconstruction professional group I moderate are from Europe and Asia.

You will really like Ryan...I am sure of that...

Warm Regards,

j