Course Description:
This project provides further exploration of our Old World techniques of creating the illusion of aged timbers, mud-daubing and plastering, as well as roofing, crumbling brick, stone, and rock, similar to those seen throughout Northern Europe. While the design was initially inspired by the tiny artisans’ cottages built into the Prague Castle fortifications, it evolved into a more imaginary structure, influenced by structures in Paris and England as well. The project includes a front wall with roofed-over bay window (alcove inside), a wooden door, partial side wall with small window, and interior tile floor; all situated on a curve of stone-paved sidewalk. Students will start with a wooden shell, to which they will apply wall, ground, and floor finishing materials, and landscaping foliage (vine work with natural plants). Classwork includes interior and exterior plastering, tiling, two kinds of roofing, applications of various aging techniques, including watercolors, latex and acrylic paints, Bug Juice, moss, and dirt. Both the paving stones and the roof slates, major design elements, require a lot of hand carving, but we will pace ourselves by alternating with work on other tasks. Instruction and materials for interior and exterior elements will be included.
The cottage’s current day function is adaptable to the individual’s imagination—think café, bookstore, bric-a-brac, clockmaker’s or music shop, puppet-maker’s workspace, etc—each student chooses the theme. An optional sign indicating their choice can be hung out front. There will be sufficient (cozy) interior floor space to hold a table and chairs, shelving, workbench, or counter (not included in class materials)—whatever students choose to carry out their theme.
Time: 36 hours. While completion is unlikely, students will go home with all the techniques and materials to finish on their own.
Power Tools: none
Skill Level: Intermediate. Note that the amount of
hand carving could be painful to those with stiff or arthritic hands.
