NATURAL PLASTERS
Hands-On Workshop With James Henderson
WHEN: May25th-29th
WHERE: Parkdale Hood River, OR
Join us in Parkdale, Oregon for a natural plaster workshop as we continue work on a 2,000 SF hemp-lime residence, the first permitted of its kind in Hood River County.
This workshop will focus on the application of clay and lime finish plasters for both exterior and interior walls, completing the final stage of the breathable wall systems installed earlier in the build.
The training emphasizes both technique and artistry, supporting the development of professional-quality natural finishes. Participants will gain hands-on experience mixing and applying clay and lime-based finish plasters while learning the nuances that elevate consistency, quality, and craft.
The workshop will be led by James Henderson, builder, licensed contractor, and internationally recognized natural plaster specialist with over two decades of experience working on natural homes worldwide.
Whether you are new to natural plaster or an experienced builder looking to refine your skills, this workshop offers a focused opportunity to learn advanced finishing techniques while contributing to the creation of a thoughtfully designed hemp-lime home.
DATES & DETAILS
Hood River Natural plaster base coats
Workshop Dates:
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May 25th-29th
Location:
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HWY. 35, Parkdale, OR 97041 (Specific address provided upon approved registration)
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20 minutes to downtown Hood River, OR
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50 minutes to Portland, OR
Project Features:
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2000 SF single story permitted residence.
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4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, with spacious living room, vaulted ceilings, and a loft space.
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All exterior walls are hemp-lime walls.
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Most interior walls are hemp-lime walls.
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For more information about this build click here.
Also Included:
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Organic Breakfast and Lunch served daily.
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Car/Tent camping available free on site.
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Outdoor Kitchen
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Outdoor Heated Shower
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Power, Potable Water, Portable Sanitation Units
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RV Spots available upon request.
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Off-Site Lodging available at cost.
For more information about Lodging and the area visit:
Breakfast served daily at 8:00am
Workday ends at 5:00pm
Primary Takeaways
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Mixing and applying natural finish coat plasters using clay and lime.
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Best practices and design detailing for integrating natural plasters with hemp-lime construction.
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Hands-on training in finish plaster application methods that balance traditional craftsmanship with modern efficiency.
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Tips and troubleshooting
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Insight into natural building design and hemp-lime systems directly from the project’s designer and manager, who will be on-site to answer questions about hempcrete construction, detailing, and permitting pathways.
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Networking opportunities with fellow participants, including plasterers and builders with a range of experience levels to share knowledge and techniques.
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Collaborative learning in a real project setting, contributing to the creation of a pioneering 2,000 SF hemp-lime home.
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
James Henderson is a builder, licensed contractor, and internationally recognized natural plaster specialist with over two decades of hands-on experience. Originally from Australia, James began in conventional construction before dedicating his career to natural building. Since 2003, he has worked across the U.S. and around the globe, plastering straw bale, light straw clay, cob, Faswall, and hemp-lime homes.
Always seeking better methods, James has trained in natural plasters in Australia, Japan, Portugal, Morocco, New Zealand, England, Estonia, and the U.S. He is the author of Earth Render: The Art of Clay Plaster, Render and Paints, a go-to reference for plaster enthusiasts worldwide, and has contributed articles to The Owner Builder Magazine and The Last Straw Journal.
Today, James is co-owner of NW Natural Homes LLC, a general contracting company based in Port Angeles, WA, specializing in high-performance natural homes, and Gold Hill Clay Plaster LLC, a manufacturer of natural clay plasters. His teaching style blends technical precision with a passion for craftsmanship, making him a sought-after instructor who empowers participants to master both traditional and innovative plastering techniques.
For More information about Jame's work visit:
Cost / COMPENSATIOn
5-Day NATURAL PLASTER Workshop
We believe in creating a learning environment that values both education and expertise. To balance teaching opportunities with the contributions of experienced plasterers, we’re offering a tiered cost structure:
Beginner / Limited Experience
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Cost: $600 before April 1st & $650 after.
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Ideal for those who are brand new to plastering or have limited experience.
Intermediate / Moderate Experience (1–2 years)
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Cost: $200
Advanced / Experienced (2+ years)
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Compensated participation
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After a short call to assess your background, compensation will be determined based on your skill level and experience.
This structure allows beginner plasterers to learn in a hands-on environment, while also attracting skilled plasterers who can help raise the level of collective learning and craftsmanship during the workshop.
Workshop Registration
