Two Day Introduction to Lime Course - 23rd & 24th April 2026
This course is now fully booked. Too see other available dates, please click here.
To be contacted if spaces become available on dates that are currently sold out, please complete the following form.
Day one of this course is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to lime in buildings. The day starts with an illustrated talk on the properties and use of lime.
The course then focuses on practical demonstrations and hands-on work.
SUITABILITY: It is suitable for anyone involved in the repair of old buildings or in the construction of ecological new-builds – contractors, homeowners and specifiers.
AGENDA:
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Lime – types, properties and use - illustrated talk
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Slaking demonstration and mortar analysis - demonstration
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Selection of limes and aggregates - demonstration
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Gauging and mixing of Hydraulic and Fat limes - demonstration
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Pointing with lime - practical
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Limewashing and surface finishes - practical
Day two focuses on practical demonstrations and hands-on work using both fat lime putty and hydraulic lime plasters.
AGENDA:
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Lime – properties and use (in summary)
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Selecting suitable limes and aggregates for each job
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Mixing and mix ratios. Addition of natural or synthetic hair
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Preparation of backgrounds (stone, lath, wood-wool board etc)
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Practical application – 3-coat work including thicknesses and timing between coats
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Scratch coat or Pricking out coat – application, scratching
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Float coat – application and floating up
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Top coat / Finish Coat
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Tending and protection work - practical
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Other plasters – hemp-lime plaster and woodfibre plaster.
SUITABILITY: This course is suitable for anyone with a basic knowledge of lime and/or plastering.
To see our Accommodation Options please see here
Ty Mawr is based in a farmstead in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park. It is on the site of a medieval manor house overlooking Llangors Lake, the largest natural lake in South Wales. The area is rich in wildlife and history.
There are a variety of walks from Ty Mawr; stroll along the edge of the lake through meadows and woodland or climb to the summit of one of the surrounding hills giving stunning panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains.
There are also plenty of opportunities for other outdoor activities in the area including birdwatching, fishing and sailing on the lake, ponytrekking and a climbing activity centre.
Where are the courses held?
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The courses are held at our Training Centre at Ty Mawr Farm, Llangasty near Brecon in mid Wales (LD3 7PJ)
How can I find the Training Centre?
What time does it start?
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Introduction start at 8:30am with tea/coffee, the courses start at 9:00am prompt.
When will it finish?
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We aim to finish by 5pm (but it depends how many questions people are asking!)
Will food be provided?
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Yes, we provide a good, home cooked lunch in the middle of the day and refreshments (tea / coffee / cakes) throughout the day just to keep you going. When you book you will be asked if you have any food allergies.
What accommodation is available?
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See here
What should I wear?
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You should wear suitable work clothes and footwear as there is a large practical element to the course. Protective equipment such as safety spectacles and gloves will be provided.
Do I need to bring anything else?
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All tools and protective equipment are provided, for the duration course, but some craftsmen like to bring their own tools. You may also want to bring samples of mortar / photos of your own projects if you want to discuss specific issues.
How many people will be on the course?
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On lime plastering days we try to keep a maximum of 7 participants to 1 tutor. This is the reason why our Lime Plastering Courses are more expensive than the Introduction to Lime Courses. We use a variety of tutors, all of whom are working lime plasterers running their own contracting businesses.
What will I have learnt by the end of the day?
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The course aims to give you a full understanding of how lime plaster works and an introduction to application procedures.
Will I get a certificate?
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The course is not assessed but we can provide an attendance certificate upon request.
Is the course linked to the new Heritage Skills CSCS card?
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Not directly but a lot of the material is relevant and provides good, underpinning knowledge and understanding for elements of the NVQ in Heritage Skills.
Why are the courses more expensive than some other providers?
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We know that our courses are a bit more expensive than some other providers but we make no apology for this as we feel the quality is second to none. We use of some of the most experienced tutors drawn from across England and Wales, the location and a high standard of catering.
