Working in the restoration and conservation of historic buildings inspired me to pursue a career in plastering. During this time, I naturally picked up the skills that led me to specialize in the trade. I have always been passionate about craftsmanship and preserving traditional building techniques. Seeing the beauty in historic structures and understanding the importance of maintaining them using authentic materials motivated me to refine my skills further. I began working in the industry at the age of 27, eager to learn and master the techniques that would allow me to contribute to the preservation of these buildings.
My formal training began with an apprenticeship in stonemasonry through the National Trust at Hardwick Hall, which lasted three years. This experience gave me a solid foundation in traditional restoration methods. After completing my apprenticeship, I worked for a private stonemasonry company in the Midlands for a year, gaining valuable industry experience. Six years ago, I moved to Cornwall, where I had the opportunity to work with various restoration and stonemasonry companies. These experiences deepened my expertise and allowed me to work on a wide range of historic buildings. Two years ago, I decided to start my own business, focusing on high-quality restoration work and traditional plastering techniques.
I attended York College, where I achieved an NVQ Level 3 in Banker Stonemasonry. Over the past nine years, I have continued to expand my expertise, constantly learning and refining my skills. Currently, I employ and train a young female labourer, who joined me last summer. She has shown incredible potential, and I am committed to supporting her development by providing hands-on training and enrolling her in as many courses as possible. My goal is to help her secure an apprenticeship so she can gain formal qualifications and establish a successful career in the trade.
Since moving to Cornwall, I have developed a strong specialisation in working with lime mortars and plasters, which now form a significant part of my business. This traditional skill is crucial in the restoration of historic buildings, ensuring that repairs remain authentic and durable. My experience working with restoration companies in the region has allowed me to perfect these techniques, and I consider them my area of expertise. Lime plastering requires patience, knowledge, and a deep understanding of materials, and I take great pride in preserving this craftsmanship.
Looking ahead, my main goal is to train and mentor more young people, especially women, in the trade. I believe it is essential to pass down these traditional skills to future generations to ensure the preservation of historic buildings. I am also passionate about raising awareness of the importance of using the correct materials and techniques in conservation work. By educating others, I hope to encourage more people to appreciate and invest in traditional restoration methods. If you’d like to see my work, you can find it on my website and social media, where I showcase my projects and share insights into the craft of plastering and restoration.
Here come the girls 