[Strawbale] Alis plaster

[Chris Green]

Orion Walker wrote:
> <snip>
>
> I'm looking for a good recipy for an Alis finish plaster.  I've checked out
> a few books, seems that an Alis generally contains clay, fine sand, and
> sometimes wheat paste, and a few other things like borax or mica.
>
> Anyone have a difinitive answer on a good mix?
>   
Try this web page: The author has a recipe which worked for him, and a 
write-up on the history of alis plaster. I haven't tried this material, 
so I can't vouch for it's quality. But once I do find some real clay in 
my area I might give it a try.

Since soils vary from place to place, you'll probably have to experiment 
for a while to get the best proportions from the ingredients you have at 
hand...or under foot. :-)

Also, check out Ms. Charmaine Taylor's website and online book store, 
dirtcheapbuilders.com at:
http://www.dirtcheapbuilder.com/
I did a search at this site for 'alis,' and nothing came up.
This is amazing, considering Charmaine researches and often uses all 
this kind of stuff.
However, she does list a book, entitled Earth Plasters for Straw Bale 
Houses, by Keely Meagan, which could give you a lot of the info you're 
looking for.
If you can find a copy... Unfortunately this one is currently out of 
print, and there currently are no copies for sale at ABEbooks.com.


Cheers,

Chris Green.