nedeľa 19. septembra 2010

Clay floor preparation

Today another big bunch of participants were leaving. I have the feeling we are saying goodbye almost continuously to someone during the last few days! Here a picture of David leaving, returning to Canada. Was great having you here!

From Strawbale Dome Minke


Because Eduardas and Guilietta were still here today, we had the opportunity to get an introduction to clay floors from them. Here in front of the dome demonstrating the last clay layer on prepared samples.

From Strawbale Dome Minke


To get a good connection with the base, it has to be made rough with water and a rough sponge:

From Strawbale Dome Minke


After a while, before the base becomes too dry (but is not to wet), the second layer is applied. If you want the base layer to shine through, you have to work the top layer into the base clay. Usually that is not what you want, so you just trowel on the top layer.

From Strawbale Dome Minke


It is possible to work with different colors to get a nice irregular pattern. The angle of the trowel is important. The colors are going to change after the hot linseed oil is applied, so better make some samples before you start on the real floor:

From Strawbale Dome Minke


To create a good contact with the stamped floor inside the dome, the floor has to be brushed with water so all loose material is glued together with clay.

From Strawbale Dome Minke


Then the main clay floor can be applied - consisting to one half of corse gravel of up to 6mm and broken sand, but still enough clay to let the whole stick very well together. This makes it possible to trowel it on. Some banging with the trowel on the clay is good for the clay and makes it stronger. The floor needs to be wet before putting the clay mix down.

From Strawbale Dome Minke


To protect the finished walls we attached cardboard paper - a good choice.

From Strawbale Dome Minke


There was also some cleaning around the Dome going on and I managed to cook a meal for 17 participants as well. Now in the evening only a few are left and getting ready to leave in the morning. It will become strangely quiet...

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