Learn the ancient skill of traditional dry stone walling and leave with the ability to carry out repairs and new builds yourself.
Who is this course for?
Whether you are the custodian of existing stone walls that need maintenance, or want to build a new wall that is sympathetic to the beautiful cultural history we have of building dry stone walls, then look no further than this introductory course. You can also purchase this course as a gift here.
What will you learn?
The earliest evidence of dry stone field enclosures in Ireland date from over 4000 years ago, in the Ceide fields of County Mayo, and these iconic features of our landscape have become a defining part of the scenery of the west of Ireland. This workshop is aimed at the beginner or novice who has an interest in understanding these age-old techniques for modern application:
The skills and knowledge involved in creating a standing structure without mortar
How to set profiles
How to create foundation layers
Terminologies used in walling
How to use face bonding to add strength
What will you take away?
You’ll leave with the confidence to start creating and repairing your own dry stone structures, and a deeper understanding and appreciation of the landscape around them.
You will also leave with a connection to other likeminded learners and stone obsessed pals.
How is the course structured?
After breakfast and introductions on our first day we will start will talking a little about the history of stone walls in Ireland and the different techniques that have been used around the country over different time periods. We’ll cover best practices when it comes to safety and moving stones with ease and then we get building. Things move slowly on the first day and we take our time to get our technique right.
On day two it is about practicing under supervision. We’ll build a considerable amount of wall and find as many opportunities as we can to learn and work around tricky situations. By the end of the second day you will be full of confidence that you can tackle any stone wall project with enough patience and care.
What’s included?
The course fee of €380 covers tuition, the use of tools and materials, and two wholesome and nutritious daily meals each day curated by our on-site chef, as well as tea, coffee and cake when it is most needed.
Staying with us at The Common Knowledge Centre
At The Common Knowledge Centre we now have a range of accommodation options on site to suit all budgets and needs. When you stay with us, you’ll be supporting our newly established guesthouse and be close to the action. We recommend arriving the evening before your course. You can view available accommodation on our booking page.
More information
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We will provide you with a loan of a hi-visibility vest for use when on-site. For your own safety, no loose-fitting clothing or shorts are permitted, and you should wear long sleeves.
The following safety gear is required and mandatory to participate in the course:
Steel toe-capped boots. No trainers, shoes or wellies will be allowed on site due to risk of injury.
Protective gloves*
Safety glasses*
Goggles*
Knee pads are also useful and will provide greater comfort. You may already have many of these items or want to pick them up yourself. These items are available in our optional Stonework Site & Safety Kit. This is available to purchase as an add on to your course ticket.
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For more information about booking a course, accommodation options, and preparing for your course at Common Knowledge, see our
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Course Instructors
