Course Description

Create mosaic slabs using the shapes and textures of pebbles to produce intricate designs, using two techniques. The course starts with advice on developing a design suitable for this medium with guidance on the qualities to look for in pebbles. You will learn the dry mix direct method which can also be used in situ and a pre-cast indirect method which allows you to produce a more detailed design with a flatter surface. We will discuss tools and methods of cutting and shaping stone and slate.

A pebble mosaic can add a unique personal touch to any garden, creating a beautiful focal point. The course starts with advice on developing a design suitable for this medium with guidance on the qualities to look for in pebbles.

You will learn different techniques to create your two mosaics, the first a dry mix direct method which can also be used in situ and secondly a pre-cast indirect method which allows you to produce a more detailed design with a flatter surface. We will discuss tools and methods of cutting and shaping stone and slate.

Course notes are provided for both techniques including material sourcing so you can use your new skills to complete more projects at home. It will also be a good opportunity for you to talk through any ideas or projects you have for your own garden including tips about installation.

The workshop is open in the evening for anyone wishing to sort pebbles and plan designs.

The college will provide black, white and yellow quartz pebbles and cut slates. You are welcome to bring your own choice of coloured pebbles/rocks/slates which are a suitable size i.e. 3cm to 5 cm or 1.25" to 2.25".

Timetable

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

Course Materials

Included

• The College will provide black, white and yellow quartz pebbles and cut slates. You are welcome to bring your own choice of coloured pebbles/rocks/slates which are a suitable size i.e. 3cm to 5 cm or 1.25" to 2.25".
• On this course the tutor will supply some of the materials including cut slates and some pebbles. The College will supply most of the other materials including wooden moulds, pebbles, Top mix (cement, sieved sharp and soft sand), non-shrink cementitious grout, plasticiser, pre-mixed concrete and waterproof tape.

What students need to bring

• If possible bring ideas for two potential designs, one to be drawn on a 30cm x 30cm thick clear plastic, the other a cut out cardboard or foam board template to fit a 45cm x 45cm square. Some pre-cut templates will be available to use.
• Tape measure and or ruler.
• Water spray with trigger action (as used in kitchens and gardens 1 litre)
• Flat seed trays in which to store sorted pebbles. 15 x 9 inches 38cm x 24cm
• Craft knife.
• A pair of thin waterproof gardening gloves.
• Apron.
• Covered sturdy shoes.
• You will be working outside throughout the course so please bring appropriate clothing.
• Bubble wrap or old towels to protect the mosaics while being transported.
• Optional: Frost proof pebbles e.g. 3cm-5cm or other rocks you may wish to use.

Available to buy

• Available from shop:
• Drawing / sketch pad, pencils
• Available from tutor:
• There will be the opportunity for you to purchase 3cm round coloured glass nuggets if you wish to use them in your design. The extra cost is £15 for approximately 60 nuggets. This charge should be paid to the tutor before the end of the course, by cash or cheque.

This course is held in the sculpture courtyard studio which is 10 minutes walk from the main house through the walled garden, or can be accessed by car. We have morning coffee and afternoon tea at the Old Dairy but return to the main house for lunch. The course is in an outdoor covered sculpture studio, you will be working outside throughout the course so please bring appropriate clothing. Covered sturdy shoes are essential. Please note the mosaics will be heavy and will require two people to lift them. They will need to be transported home flat and measure 18inch/46cm plus a frame and a 12 inch /30cm square.