A philosophically informed consideration of the craftsman's progression from apprenticeship to mastery.

Having previously considered Metaphysics and Epistemology, this essay deals with the final of the three branches of Classical philosophy: Ethics. In this essay I delve into our relation with Aesthetics—how things ought to appeal to the senses as well as Morality—how ought we be disposed to ourselves, other people, nature and the craft itself.

Having previously considered Metaphysics, this essay deals with the second of the three branches of Classical philosophy: Epistemology, that is to say what constitutes real knowledge for the traditional craftsman.

Pattern and matter...a window into how craftsmen apply techniques upon material to bring their designs to life.

The highest expression of the plasterer's art in the Islamic tradition is achieved with the humblest of tools.

The concluding essay of a three-part series taking an Eastern perspective on issues facing craftsmen in the Western world.

The second of a three part series taking an Eastern perspective on issues facing craftsmen in the Western world.

Why can't we build things the way we used to? A traditional Eastern response to a contemporary Western question.

British Palladian design realized in traditional plasterwork for a Classical Christian academy in Richmond, VA.

An approach to building that can sustain us ecologically, enrich us culturally and create places we're happy to call home.

The opening essay of a series to explore the perennial philosophy of visceral, lived experience.

A perspective of where we’re at, how we arrived here and where we might take the world if we have the courage...

Different types of gypsum and how to use them

Understanding the difference between hydrated lime and hydraulic lime.

Stuc Pierre literally means stone stucco. It has been used for centuries for both interior and exterior applications.

Patrick Webb discusses plasters that work together and those that don't.

Comparing the paring of wine and food to plaster, Patrick Webb shows how Terre de Séléné continues to be utilized for restoration work and in new build construction using traditional means and methods.

Wine and plaster have quite a bit in common. Both require careful planning and an artisan's touch.

Wine and Plaster

Certain geologic, atmospheric and climactic conditions are needed for wine and for plaster.

Patrick and Angela Webb show that grapes and plaster have a lot in common.

Patrick Webb discusses the characteristics and many advantages of using clay as a binder for both interior and exterior construction.

In my last blog, I discussed binders, the “mineral glue” as it were, that holds things together. Now it’s time to consider the “things,” the aggregates and occasionally fibers that typically compose the greater part of the volume and mass of a plaster.