Mud finish layer

Previously we used a mud mix, consisting of the red earth, a bit of straw, and some coarse sand. The result was a sticky mixture, which however ended up having a few cracks. That is fine for the first layer, and actually helps the second layer to adhere better.

This time we were able to cover all last time's panels with the finishing layer. The ingredients were quite different:

1- Loads of fine Silica Sand
2- Half a load of red earth
3- finely chopped ("pulverised"=> thanks Mira!) straw in large quantities
4- A bit of four star wall paper glue

Before applying the mixture we sprayed a mist of water on the lower layer, to prevent to fast absorbtion of water, which could lead to cracking or incomplete binding.

The straw shines through the mud after application, which makes for a nice texture and pattern.





Once dry, this surface should lighten up markedly.

Respect to the manly crew of ISSHO mud mixers. It was a tough job in the heat, and this silica sand is much heavier and harder to work with. They kept the supply coming all day, enough to make us, the trowellers sweat in streams.