Comprehensive Training

Explore traditional plastering materials, tools, and techniques 

Focus on Historic Plasters

Learn about lime- and gypsum-based plasters used in historic buildings

Dynamic Learning Experience

Engaging quizzes for interactive learning experiences

About the Course

Join our specialized training course, Foundations of Traditional Plastering & Historic Masonry, designed for tradespeople, preservationists, architects and contractors eager to master traditional plastering methods. Dive into 8 engaging lessons covering materials, tools, chemistry, and ethics in traditional plaster systems. Receive a certificate upon completion and enhance your restoration skills today!

Meet Your Instructor, The Expert in Traditional Plastering

Cody Clark is Master Artisan and Vice President of Olde World Walls & Ceilings Inc. He brings years of expertise in traditional plastering and historic masonry to guide you through this course. Learn from a seasoned professional who is passionate about preserving the art of traditional plastering and is dedicated to helping you succeed in mastering these techniques.

Course Curriculum

8 Chapters · 63 Lessons

  1. 1

    Lesson 1: What Is Traditional Plaster?

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      What Is Traditional Plaster?

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      What Makes It “Traditional”?

    3. Why It Matters in Historic Buildings Free preview
    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Understanding Plaster as a System

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Why Learn Traditional Plaster Today?

    6. Quiz: Lesson 1 – What Is Traditional Plaster? Free preview
  2. 2

    Lesson 2: Overview of Interior & Exterior Plaster Systems

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Overview of Interior & Exterior Plaster Systems

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Interior Plaster Systems

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Exterior Plaster (Stucco) Systems

    4. Key Differences Between Interior & Exterior Systems Free preview
    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Understanding Climate Compatibility

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Takeaway

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz: Lesson 2 – Overview of Interior & Exterior Systems

  3. 3

    Lesson 3: The Chemistry of Plaster

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      The Chemistry of Plaster

    2. The Lime Cycle: How Lime Transforms Free preview
    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Types of Lime and Their Behavior

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Gypsum Chemistry: Faster but Less Flexible

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Additives & Aggregates: What’s in the Mix

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      What Happens When You Get the Chemistry Wrong

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Takeaway

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz: Lesson 3 – The Chemistry of Plaster

  4. 4

    Lesson 4: Understanding Substrates & Compatibility

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Understanding Substrates & Compatibility

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      What Is a Substrate?

    3. Moisture Movement Is Key Free preview
    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Common Substrates and Best Matches

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Signs of Incompatibility

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Field Tests and Evaluation Tips

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Takeaway

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz: Lesson 4 – Understanding Substrates & Compatibility

  5. 5

    Lesson 5: Traditional Plastering Techniques

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Traditional Plastering Techniques

    2. The Three-Coat Plaster System Free preview
    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Plaster Veneer and Two-Coat Systems

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Application Process Step-by-Step

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Specialty Finishes & Regional Variations

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Tools of the Trade

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Takeaway

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz: Lesson 5 – Traditional Plastering Techniques

  6. 6

    Lesson 6: Diagnosing & Repairing Existing Plaster

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Diagnosing & Repairing Existing Plaster

    2. Common Causes of Plaster Failure Free preview
    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Types of Plaster Damage

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Steps for Diagnosing Existing Plaster

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Repair Methods for Historic Plaster

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      When to Remove and Replace

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Takeaway

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz: Lesson 6 – Diagnosing & Repairing Existing Plaster

  7. 7

    Lesson 7: Interior vs. Exterior Applications

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Interior vs. Exterior Applications

    2. Interior Plaster Basics Free preview
    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Exterior Stucco Basics

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Application Differences

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Curing Conditions Matter

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Breathability and Waterproofing — A Common Misunderstanding

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      When to Use What?

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Takeaway

    9. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz: Lesson 7 – Interior vs. Exterior Applications

  8. 8

    Lesson 8: Codes, Compliance & Preservation Ethics

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Codes, Compliance & Preservation Ethics

    2. Understanding the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards Free preview
    3. (Included in full purchase)

      When Do These Standards Apply to Plaster Work?

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Navigating Local Building Codes

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Preservation Ethics for Tradespeople

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Best Practices in Documentation

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Takeaway

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz: Lesson 8 – Codes, Compliance & Preservation Ethics

    9. (Included in full purchase)

      YOU DID IT!

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