Plaster Diaries

Tireless evolving thoughts of something bigger, something noteworthy to celebrate the craft of plaster provided a metaphorical horizon to an already charmed career and dictated my every day for the past few years until I succumbed to the calling. It’s this journey of discovery and the lessons I continually learn that will continue to usher New Age Artisans into its next chapter and provide the necessary sheen to keep the notion of growth attractive.

Having learned from Marrakech masters, and bringing many of the learned skills home, it was important to pay homage to the country of Morocco, yet also push the plaster in a progressive direction with modern tools.

Whether they’re a seasoned artisan or just starting out, thoughtful, high-quality tools and accessories are always appreciated. Here’s a guide to gifts that are sure to inspire and elevate their craft.

Consider this your behind-the-scenes look at our colors—a space to share inspiration, project stories, and insights into how these shades come to life in real-world spaces. From soft neutrals to bold pigments, each color has its own personality, and I’m so excited to share them with you.

There’s been a new wave of learning across the globe: internet teaching. Masterclasses are ruling the world. It’s amazing and convenient that people can learn at their own pace, in their own space. Even with the successes of these platforms, there are still individuals who desire in-person interactions. Fear not! The constant calls for hands-on instruction have been heard.

Rancho Mastatal is a hub for permaculture education, encompassing a variety of topics like fermentation and wilderness medicine to natural building and agroforestry. Over the last 20+ years, the core team and yearly apprentices have created a community locally and internationally that are implementing permaculture practices daily.

From ancient artisans to modern innovators, the appreciation of a smooth trowel stroke spans millennia. The evolution of these tools has been fascinating, shaping not only the craft itself but also the final outcome of our work.

Sculptors value the physical and chemical properties of plaster as well. Whether that is molds for detailed forms before casting a bronze figure or replicating the movements of the air, water, and earth on canvas. The versatility and quick drying time provide endless possibilities.

Learn about the unique experience of building earth domes with Superadobe in Mexico. These sustainable homes are constructed using dirt and imagination. Discover the process, challenges, and the sense of community that accompanies the construction of these homes.

“All drywall MUST be taped to a level 3 finish prior to plaster install,” is a bolden phrase that graces our estimates and contracts. While the term “plaster” primarily conjures visions of lathe and horsehair in your grandparent’s farmhouse, to many it’s important to note that since the 1940s this has changed, and lathe has been replaced with sheetrock panels. As the result, plaster has transitioned to a decorative finish and less of a structural facade.

From its aesthetic appeal to practical advantages, Tadelakt has quickly captured the attention of the world. With the start of a waterproof membrane followed by a natural chemical reaction that renders layers of plaster hydrophobic, the tactile surfaces of Tadelakt breath life into any space. The endless design options of the traditional Moroccan plaster have transfixed the world for centuries-though recently it has entered the mainstream and is no longer solely coveted by designers. But what exactly is Tadelakt? And why can't everyone stop talking about it?

Calcium Carbonate, or “lime” has a myriad of uses in our world. Its origins date back thousands of years, and we suspect that early cavemen broke off chunks of limestone around a fire pit and with the addition of water, the “quicklime” became hydrated lime or lime putty. The resulting binder was then mixed with an aggregate such as sand. During the drying stage, the mortar or plaster absorbs free carbon from the air and reverts to limestone. Since the inception of caveman time, this chemical compound has been integrated into air systems, wastewater management, agricultural development, and of course construction.

The only constant is change, and subsequently it’s only natural that new traditions are forged and lost arts are formed. Our New Age Artisans team has developed quite the penchant for the inherent qualities of craft and forgotten mediums; and we’ve constantly strived to document the journey throughout our trade tenure.

The renowned beauty of Tadelakt along with its hydrophobic functionality make it a standout among designers and artisans, alike. While many use a Tadelakt installation as a backdrop for timeless showers and bathroom designs, our team has recently seen the ancient plaster technique creep into other areas of the home. From range hoods to backsplashes, Tadelakt's minimalistic appearance creates an overall harmony in a home that is not easy to replicate.

The term “plaster” conjures various images. Here in the United States, most believe it’s an imported high gloss finish made in Italy, while some consider it to be smeared drywall mud that’s painted. There are a select and latent few that cling to its original calcium roots. Throughout our many trowel travels, we have gained the perspective that there are “different strokes for different folks.” We respect the trade as a whole and ponder the motives of every plasterer we meet.

From trowels and drills, to buckets and maskers; we're going to run through what the team at New Age Artisans believes to be the top 10 “must-have” plaster tools for any industry professional or DIY enthusiast.

If you have been doing any research on modern plaster walls, it probably comes as no surprise to you that the Tadelakt system has been around for thousands of years. However, you might not have been aware that Tadelakt is a specific type of lime plaster and was created by the Berbers in Northern Morocco. The Berbers, of Northern Africa have no written language. Therefore, this tradition was passed down verbally from generation to generation.

Tadelakt has quickly captured the attention of interior designers, homeowners, and renovators. It's a Moroccan plaster technique that dates back over two thousand years and has emerged as a unique alternative to tiles. With the lack of grout lines and a hydrophobic membrane, tadelakt plaster is used in showers to create seamless designs that stand the test of time.

Marianne wasn’t always natural born potter. Born in New Jersey, Marianne attended New Jersey City University and pushed through her ceramic’s degree with minimal enthusiasm. With unbridled passion, Marianne stayed until midnight most nights honing her skills. After a few months, she had surpassed the rest of the crew in her skillset.

In a crowded design world of click and stick aesthetics, it isn’t often we come by a home that maintains a robust storyline and whose unique décor sets it apart from ALL others. In 2020, we had the good fortune to meet Peruvian native Veronica Nelson, aka “Vero.” We were quickly taken by her authentic demeanor, eclectic style, and overwhelming desire for her home to tell her story.