My journey into the plastering trade was driven by a core belief: once acquired, knowledge, skill, and experience are lifelong assets. These qualities, once honed, provide the freedom to work anywhere, at any time, with nothing more than the tools of the trade. Over twenty years ago, early in my training, a customer remarked that the craftsman teaching me was “the last of the real plasterers.” That statement left a lasting impression on me, and I set a personal goal that, two decades later, someone would say the same about me to a new apprentice just starting out.
I entered the plastering industry at the age of 28, transitioning from a career in the motor vehicle sector. When the recession struck, I made a deliberate decision to retrain and sought out some of the most reputable plasterers in my area. I immersed myself in learning, absorbing both the technical skills and the deeper craft knowledge from those who had mastered the trade. This period laid the foundation for my career and instilled in me the values of discipline, attention to detail, and respect for the traditions of plastering.
My training has been primarily hands-on, learned directly from experienced professionals who were willing to share their expertise. I supplemented this with extensive self-directed study, drawing on respected industry literature, including works by William Miller and George Bankart, as well as standard college materials. Over the years, I have maintained close professional relationships with masters and peers, engaging in continuous dialogue to exchange knowledge and refine my craft. My approach has always been one of curiosity, asking questions and seeking better methods.
Although I have not attended a formal college programme, I am currently undertaking distance learning with Bernard Cunningham of Solid Heritage Plasterwork and Lime, with the goal of obtaining a CITB-recognised qualification. My professional development has also included attendance at specialist courses delivered by highly respected industry figures such as Sean Wheatley, Philip Gaches, and Bill Sargent. I believe strongly in learning from the best and applying those lessons in my work.
With over 22 years in the trade, I have also taken on the responsibility of training apprentices. Some have moved on to run their own successful businesses, while others continue to work within the industry, and I take great pride in their achievements. I currently mentor an apprentice who has been with me for two years, alongside a long-term colleague with whom I have worked side-by-side for the past 18 years.
My expertise spans all aspects of plastering, including gypsum, cement, and lime work. Within these areas, I specialise further in decorative, ornamental, heritage, and historical applications. My focus is on both breadth and depth of skill, ensuring I am able to meet the demands of any project, from modern finishes to historical restorations.
Looking to the future, my aim is to continue developing my abilities, expanding my knowledge, and refining my techniques. Ultimately, I aspire to achieve the honour of being recognised as a master plasterer by the Worshipful Company of Plasterers. This is an ambition I intend to earn through dedication, achievement, and the respect of my peers, rather than through title alone.
I have never required a website or extensive advertising; my work has come entirely through reputation and word of mouth. More recently, I have founded *The Professional Plastering and Rendering Group of All Aspects* on Facebook, an invitation-only community for skilled tradespeople. My vision is to create a network where professionals, educators, and experts can share their work, exchange knowledge, and uphold the highest standards of the trade. I contribute to this daily by sharing completed projects and encouraging others to do the same, with the aim of fostering a strong, informed, and collaborative professional community.
This combination of hands-on experience, continuous learning, mentorship, and commitment to excellence reflects both my personal dedication to plastering and my broader desire to contribute to the preservation and advancement of the craft.
Lath and Plaster 