Smooth, Sculpt, & Seal: Join Our Introductory Natural Plaster Workshop at Talking Water
Ready to get your hands dirty in the most satisfying way?
Join us at Talking Water Nature Retreat for a 2-day natural plaster workshop where you’ll learn how to transform walls with breathable, beautiful finishes made from simple natural materials. This is a great weekend workshop for curious beginners, homeowners, artists, and builders who want a strong introduction to the world of clay and lime plaster.
At Talking Water, we believe building should feel creative, grounding, and deeply human. Natural plaster brings all of that together. It can soften a space, add warmth and movement, protect your walls, and connect your home to the materials of the earth. In this workshop, you’ll get to explore both the practical and artistic side of plaster while learning in a supportive, hands-on environment inspired by the same welcoming spirit as our 2025 workshop series.
What You’ll Learn
Over the course of the weekend, we’ll introduce the foundations of natural plastering in a way that feels approachable and useful. Students will learn about common plaster ingredients, how to think about mix ratios, what different surfaces need for proper adhesion, and how to apply plaster in a way that is both durable and beautiful.
We’ll cover topics such as:
- clay, lime, sand, and fiber basics
- understanding plaster consistency and material behavior
- wall prep and bonding
- base coats vs. finish coats
- texture options and finishing styles
- patching, repairs, and troubleshooting
You’ll have the chance to practice with your own hands, ask questions freely, and begin developing a feel for the materials – because plaster is something best understood through touch, rhythm, and repetition.
Why Take This Workshop?
This 2-day format is perfect for folks who want a manageable introduction without needing to commit to a full week. Maybe you’re considering plaster in your own home, wanting to explore natural building methods, or simply craving the experience of learning something real and useful outdoors with good people.
What to Expect at Talking Water
Our workshops are held at Talking Water Nature Retreat, a forested mountain property in Chattanooga where creativity, experimentation, and natural beauty all come together. Lead by our family members, this tactile experience is rooted in hands-on training, shared meals, and genuine interest in helping people realize their dreams.
Expect a welcoming environment, real building experience, and plenty of time outside. Breakfast & lunch are included each workshop day, and students are invited into a setting with trails, hammocks, fresh air, and space to connect with both the work and each other. We offer on-site camping, reduced-rate cabin rentals, and a supportive learning environment designed to help people leave empowered.
Who This Is For
This workshop is a great fit for:
- beginners curious about natural building
- DIY homeowners
- natural builders wanting more finish experience
- artists and creatives drawn to texture and sculptural surfaces
- anyone who wants to spend a weekend learning practical, beautiful skills
You do not need prior experience. Just come ready to learn, experiment, and participate.
Let’s Build Beautifully
Natural plaster is one of those skills that changes how you see walls forever. Once you understand what’s possible, a blank surface starts to feel full of opportunity.
Come spend the weekend with us learning to mix, spread, smooth, sculpt, and seal with natural materials. You’ll leave with practical knowledge, hands-on experience, and a deeper sense of what it means to build spaces that feel alive.
“As a local to Chattanooga, I was pleasantly surprised to find out about Talking Water and all its beautiful alternative and natural building structures. I’ve learned so much from attending workshops and always leave feeling inspired and confident in my ability to follow a similar path. Bobbie and her team are so welcoming and provide a wealth of knowledge for those inspired by crafting their own dream homestead. I highly recommend attending a workshop and stay at one of their beautiful cabins!” – James C.
Ready to reserve your spot?
Click here: https://app.thehost.co/dashboard/store/16483/
Have questions?
Reach out to:
Bobbie Such
[email protected]
(423) 713-3641