Lime, Diatoms and Molasses in Barbados: Today we began a series of workshops with tutors and students, from the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute, Barbados Community College, and tradespeople.
The first day included a PowerPoint presentation about the use of coral stone and lime mortars in Barbados, which has a history of adding active silica rich marl, diatomaceous earths, and molasses to mortars, to improve compaction and weathering. The mortars and stone are constantly challenged by salt laden air which engulfs the island.
We also began to take apart a weighted sash window to enable new sashes to be made for other mid-19th century openings at The Garrison House, now part of the Barbados Museum, during the heritage skills training programme.
M Womersleys on behalf of the Queen Elizabeth II, Platinum Jubilee Commonwealth Heritage Skills Training Programme, funded by the Hamish Ogston Foundation, is delivering the programme. Mark is not only teaching, but also learning from local craftsmen, that he working with.
Related Articles

On Sunday, March 16th, why not come for a full introduction to lime plastering and a practical demonstration workshop?
Learn more about traditional clay, lime, and ornamental gypsum plasters and their use internationally…

Proposals to carry out a conservation assessment at Wukro Cherkos, with a full training programme for recent graduates from Mekelle University and government bodies responsible for regional conservation work.
Introduction In response to continued concerns about the condition of one of Tigray’s most well…

Report on the support given by M Womersleys to Jabir Mohamed at Berbera Museum, Berbera, Somaliland, over two weeks from the end of October 2024
Contents  …