Justin Brimmer was born in 1970 in Hemel Hempstead. At the age of 14, he had a
motocross accident that hospitalized him for nine months, with six months of
rehabilitation. Missing the last two years of secondary school, Justin found his path through college.
He began his plastering journey in 1986 at a college in Luton while apprenticing with Robinson Brothers, a prominent plastering firm in St Albans. Under the mentorship of Arthur Watkins, an esteemed figure in plastering education, Justin gained his qualifications and passed his CITB skills test in Erith, Kent.
At 19, Justin ventured into house bashing, working seven days a week to save for overseas opportunities. In 1989, he arrived in Sydney, Australia, armed with a few hand tools and limited experience. He quickly adapted to local rendering techniques, which at the time did not use angle beads and required free forming with external corner trowels. After a few months, he secured a job that allowed him to buy a small Datsun truck.
Working in Sydney, Justin learned new skills, including skimming over concrete ceilings with lime putty and casting plaster. He thrived on price work, earning a significant income with the help of a reliable labourer. After extending his work visa, he stayed for four years, eventually starting his own business with 12 employees.
In 2006, Justin was invited to set up a plastering department at his local college part-time.
Despite the challenges, he succeeded with the help of mentors like Dave Winchester and became a member of the National Association of Plastering Lecturers (NAPL). During this time, he successfully earned his teaching degree.
Justin’s expertise led to his role as a plastering judge, collaborating with British Gypsum to design test pieces and judge student work across Great Britain and Ireland. In 2013, he was awarded the title of Master Plasterer, an honour he cherishes. He also successfully gained his Heritage Level 3 qualification and was awarded his assessor’s award.
After years of teaching, Justin returned to hands-on work, passing his passion for plastering to his eldest son, Joel. His younger son, Reece, also followed in his footsteps for a period, winning the regional Skill Build competition with the highest marks in the country before moving to the USA.
One of Justin’s favourite memories is seeing one of his students win a silver medal at the Plastering Nationals and being selected for WorldSkills. He continues to mentor many students worldwide, who still keep in touch, seeking guidance and advice.
Upon returning to the UK, Justin set up his own plastering business and completed
numerous historical restoration projects nationwide, further cementing his expertise and passion for plastering. As a plastering judge, he has visited every plastering college in the UK, gaining immense knowledge and experience across the nation. He now works part time while continuing to teach, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of plasterers.
Lime work and restoration remain his true passions, and he’s proud to continue working
with his trusted tools. His motto: “Have trowel, will travel”!!
Lath and Plaster 