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Includes Credits Includes a Live In-Person Event on 05/30/2026 at 8:00 AM (EDT)
Learn historic window preservation in a one-day, hands-on workshop at the Saylor House located in Hagerstown, Maryland. The workshop is scheduled for May 30, 2026. Cost: $20.
Dates: May 30, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM each day
Location: Kiwanis Park, 371 Dynasty Dr., Hagerstown, MD 21740
Class Size Limit: 15 participants
Registration Deadline: May 23, 2026
Overview
Join us for a one-day hands-on workshop focused on the repair and preservation of historic wood windows. This beginner workshop is ideal for homeowners, or anyone interested in learning traditional restoration techniques.
Held at Saylor House in Hagerstown, Maryland, this intensive course will guide participants through the following:
- Window components overview, safety, and tools
- Window sash removal
- Reglazing tools and techniques
- Wood repairs
- Weatherstripping installation
Tuition & Registration
Cost: $20 per participant
Your registration includes access to one full day of expert instruction, guided hands-on experience, and all required materials and tools. Students will take home a window sash. Payment details and further information will be provided in your registration confirmation email.
Location and Travel for Training
Training Date: May 30, 2026
Meeting Address: Kiwanis Park, 371 Dynasty Dr., Hagerstown, MD 21740Participants are responsible for their own travel, housing, meals, and refreshments. Please plan to arrive on time for check-in at 8:00 a.m. EDT.
Learning Goals
You’ll learn through a combination of classroom-style instruction and hands-on restoration work. The focus is on practical techniques and real-world conditions.
Agenda:
8:00am
- Introductions
- Discussion on the characteristics of different periods of windows, and methods of construction and glass manufacturing.
- Safety hazards related to window restoration
- Lead paint, burns, asbestos
9:00am
- Review of all tools used in window restoration
- Demonstration of sash removal from frames
10:00am
- Demonstration of different methods of removing glazing putty and glass, and paint.
- Heat plate, Speedheater
- Steam
- Chemical Strippers
11:00am
- Hands-on practice of removing glazing putty and paint
12:00pm Lunch
12:30pm
- Demonstration of glass installation and glazing
- Hands-on practice of glazing putty application
2:00pm
- Discussion and demonstration of types of wood repairs
- Epoxy
- Dutchman
- Component replacement
3:00pm
- Discussion of weatherstripping and storm windows
- Demonstration of installing weatherstripping
4:00pm
- Wrap-up
What to Bring
- Full-length pants and long sleeves (that you can get dirty)
- Weather-appropriate clothing. It may be hot, humid, cold, or windy. Check the weather and plan accordingly.
- Closed-toe shoes
- Personal items: snacks, lunch, a water bottle, sun block, bug spray
- Be sure to wear clothes that you are okay with getting dirty.
FAQs
1. When is the workshop scheduled?
The workshop will take place on Saturday, May 30th.
2. Where will the workshop be held?
On May 30, everyone will check in at: Kiwanis Park, 371 Dynasty Dr., Hagerstown, MD 21740.
3. How much does the workshop cost?
The total cost of the workshop is $20. Other expenses, such as travel and housing, are NOT included in the cost. Registrants must arrange and pay for their own travel, housing, and food expenses. PPE, tools, and work materials will be provided.
4. Who are the instructors?
The instructor for the workshop is David Gibney.
5. What topics will be covered in the workshop?
The workshop will cover window sash components and construction, window sash materials, and reglazing tools and techniques.
6. What are the daily hours of the workshop?
The workshop will run for eight hours. Please arrive by 8:00 a.m. EDT for check-in. Learners will receive information about their daily activities once on-site.
7. Who should attend this workshop?
This introductory workshop is open to beginners, tradespeople, preservationists, and anyone interested in learning more about historic window restoration.
8. Do I need any prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary. This is an introductory, beginner workshop. All materials and tools will be provided.
9. What should I bring to the workshop?
All necessary materials, tools, and PPE will be provided. Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on work and bring any personal items they may need for a full day of activities. All participants must wear closed-toe shoes. Suggested items to bring include a water bottle, lunch, and snacks. Wear clothes that can get dirty or be damaged. Long pants and long sleeves are required. Recommendations: wear layers to allow for weather changes and indoor or outdoor work, bring bug spray and sunblock.
10. Are there any additional activities included in the workshop?
There are no planned activities. Learners may explore the local area on their own.
11. How do I register for the workshop?
Register on this website. If you do not already have an account, you will need to create an account prior to registration.
12. Is travel and accommodation included in the workshop fee?
No, participants are responsible for their own travel, food, and accommodation arrangements.
13. What is the maximum number of attendees for the workshop?
The maximum number of attendees is 16.
14. What happens if registration is full?
Once registration reaches 16 participants, please email kpratt@historictrades.org to be added to a waitlist.
15. What is your refund policy?
The Campaign can process refund requests UP TO fourteen days before the start date of the event. No refunds will be issued in the fourteen days before the start date of the event. This is measured at 12:01 am EST on the listed start date of the event. Please email learn@historictrades.org with the subject line REFUND REQUEST, with your name, event details, and total amount in the email body. The Campaign will refund 75% on the total you paid for the event; our payment processer will deduct processing fees from your total refund amount. Funds will appear in your account within 30 days of the refund being processed.
$i++ ?>David Gibney
Expert Craftsman
Self-Employed, Retired
David first learned historic preservation skills in the 1980's through the "Restoration Workshop," a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP). He managed his own preservation company for 40 years, completing preservation and restoration projects ranging from simple African American churches (Tolson's Chapel, Sharpsburg, MD) to Founding Father's estates (Homewood, Baltimore Maryland and Doughoregan Manor, Howard County, Maryland). Some of his skills include repairing and replacing flat plaster, cast plaster, and plaster molding and medallions. In addition, he has repaired and reinstalled wood shutters, repaired timber frame barns, and completed traditional exterior stucco. In his retirement, he is focused on passing on his skills and knowledge through projects with HistoriCorps and the NTHP's HOPE (Hands-On Preservation Experience) Program. David's biggest challenge and greatest reward is working with the Accomplished Arts Apprentices program through the Peale Museum in Baltimore. There, he teaches repointing, basic carpentry, and plaster to 10 young adults from marginalized communities, over the course of 16 weeks.
Teaching has always been part of David's career. He has taught craft skills (windows, plaster, masonry, porches, etc.) at the Smithsonian, University of Pennsylvania, Harford Community College, and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. David has been honored to receive the Askins Achievement Award from the Preservation Trades Network (2008) and the Preservation Artisan Award from Preservation Maryland (2019).
A Note From David:
"I have merged my loves of art, old stuff, and working with my hands by creating a 50-year career in Historic Preservation, a career that will never be replaced by AI or robots. In my retirement, I'm sharing my skills and knowledge with anyone willing to learn. I live with my wife, Sarah, and dog, Jack, near the Appalachian Trail in Smithsburg, Maryland, where we operate two Airbnb's."
Training Completed:
Beyond Hands-On Instructor Training (BHIT)
Instructor Competencies:
Blacksmithing (bronze casting, lost wax casting)
Building Analysis
Historic Preservation
Masonry (brick, cleaning, repointing)
Master Carpenter
Plaster
Stucco
Windows (repair and restoration of wood-framed windows and window glass)
-
Register
- Public - $20
- Administrator - $20
- Apprentice - $20
- More Information
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Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 05/01/2026 at 8:30 AM (EDT)
Learn historic masonry repointing repair in a two-day, hands-on workshop scheduled for May 1-2, 2026. Early bird registration: $400 (register by April 1). Normal registration: $450 (register by April 24).
Overview
Dates: May 1-2, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM each day
Location: Arthurdale Heritage, 18 Q Road, Arthurdale, WV 26520
Class Size Limit: 16 participants
Join us for a two-day hands-on masonry repointing workshop. Under the guidance of David Gibney, participants will learn and practice traditional repointing techniques using both real-world conditions and controlled training environments. Students will learn brick and stone repointing techniques.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Learn about materials, tooling, and site preparation for masonry repointing
- Practice techniques using an old (non-historic) brick structure onsite
- Gain hands-on repointing experience on brick and stone
- Work side-by-side with seasoned instructors in a supportive environment
Tuition & Registration
Early bird registration: $400 (register by April 1).
Normal registration: $450 (register by April 24).Your registration includes access to two full days of expert instruction, guided hands-on experience, and all required materials and tools.
Payment details and further information will be provided in your registration confirmation email.
Location and Travel for Training
Training Dates: May 1-2, 2026
Location: Arthurdale Heritage
Day 1 Meeting Address: 18 Q Road, Arthurdale, WV 26520
Participants are responsible for their own travel, housing, meals, and refreshments.
Please plan to arrive on time for check-in on Day 1. Meet at 8:30 a.m. EDT.
Sample Agenda
You’ll learn through a combination of classroom-style instruction and hands-on restoration work. The focus is on practical techniques and real-world conditions.
Day 1: Foundation, Philosophy, and Hands-On Work
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
-
Welcome & Check-in
-
Safety briefing and gear check
-
Site walkthrough and introductions
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
-
Introduction to masonry repointing
Tools and materials overview
Mortar basics and historic compatibility
Importance in preservation
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
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Demonstration: Repointing
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Hands-on: Tool familiarization and practice on an old brick, non-historic chimney
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
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Lunch (bring your own)
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
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Hands-on: Joint preparation and repointing on a large non-historic chimney
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Begin work on stone pathways or retaining walls if ready
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
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Day 1 recap, Q&A, and prep for Day 2
Day 2: Site Repointing & Refining Skills
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
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Morning check-in and safety refresh
-
Review Day 1 lessons and questions
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
-
Hands-on: Repointing stone pathways and retaining walls
-
Guidance from instructors on tool use, joint packing, and finish technique
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
-
Lunch (bring your own)
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
-
Continued repointing
-
Troubleshooting common issues
-
Final touch-ups and mortar care
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
-
Wrap-up discussion
-
Instructor feedback and Q&A
-
Clean-up and secure site
What to Bring
To ensure safety and comfort during the workshop, all participants should bring:
-
Closed-toe shoes (required)
-
Sunscreen or sunblock
-
Hat or sun protection
-
Knee pads or a pad for kneeling (participants will be working close to the ground)
-
Personal items: snacks, lunch, a water bottle
Be sure to wear clothes that you are okay with getting dirty. Long pants and long sleeves are required.
Accessibility Considerations
Please note: This workshop involves extended standing, kneeling, and sitting on the ground to access foundation-level masonry. If you have accessibility concerns or questions about physical requirements, please contact the course administrator before registering.
FAQs
1. When is the workshop scheduled?
The workshop will take place over two days: Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2.
2. Where will the workshop be held?
On May 1, everyone will check in at 18 Q Road, Arthurdale, WV 26520
3. How much does the workshop cost?
The total cost of the workshop is $400 for early-bird registration and $450 for standard registration. Other expenses, such as travel and housing, are NOT included in the cost. Registrants must arrange and pay for their own travel, housing, and food expenses.
4. Who are the instructors?
The instructor for the workshop is David Gibney.
5. What topics will be covered in the workshop?
Participants in this two-day workshop will learn the fundamentals of historic masonry repointing through both classroom-style instruction and hands-on practice. Key topics include mortar composition and compatibility, joint preparation, proper repointing techniques, tool handling, and finishing methods. Learners will gain experience working on a brick chimney, stone pathways, and a stone retaining wall, applying preservation principles in a practical setting under the guidance of expert instructors.
6. What are the daily hours of the workshop?
The workshops will run for eight hours each day. General start/end times may vary each day. Day 1, please arrive by 8:30 a.m. for check-in. Learners will receive information about their daily activities once on-site.
7. Who should attend this workshop?
This course is open to beginners, tradespeople, preservationists, and anyone interested in learning more about historic masonry.
8. Do I need any prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary. All materials and tools will be provided.
9. What should I bring to the workshop?
All necessary materials, tools, and PPE will be provided. Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on work and bring any personal items they may need for a full day of activities. All participants must wear closed-toe shoes. Suggested items to bring include a water bottle, snacks, lunch, sunblock, and kneepads. Wear clothes that can get dirty or be damaged. Long pants and long sleeves are required.
10. Are there any additional activities included in the workshop?
There are no planned activities. Learners may explore the local area on their own.
11. How do I register for the workshop?
Register on this website. You will need to create an account to register if you do not already have one.
12. Is travel and accommodation included in the workshop fee?
No, participants are responsible for their own travel, food, and accommodation arrangements.
13. What is the maximum number of attendees for the workshop?
The maximum number of attendees is 16.
14. What happens if registration is full?
Once registration reaches 16 participants, please email kpratt@historictrades.org to be added to a waitlist.
15. What is your refund policy?
The Campaign can process refund requests UP TO fourteen days before the start date of the event. No refunds will be issued in the fourteen days before the start date of the event. This is measured at 12:01 am EST on the listed start date of the event. Please email learn@historictrades.org with the subject line REFUND REQUEST, with your name, event details, and total amount in the email body. The Campaign will refund 75% on the total you paid for the event; our payment processer will deduct processing fees from your total refund amount. Funds will appear in your account within 30 days of the refund being processed.
$i++ ?>David Gibney
Expert Craftsman
Self-Employed, Retired
David first learned historic preservation skills in the 1980's through the "Restoration Workshop," a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP). He managed his own preservation company for 40 years, completing preservation and restoration projects ranging from simple African American churches (Tolson's Chapel, Sharpsburg, MD) to Founding Father's estates (Homewood, Baltimore Maryland and Doughoregan Manor, Howard County, Maryland). Some of his skills include repairing and replacing flat plaster, cast plaster, and plaster molding and medallions. In addition, he has repaired and reinstalled wood shutters, repaired timber frame barns, and completed traditional exterior stucco. In his retirement, he is focused on passing on his skills and knowledge through projects with HistoriCorps and the NTHP's HOPE (Hands-On Preservation Experience) Program. David's biggest challenge and greatest reward is working with the Accomplished Arts Apprentices program through the Peale Museum in Baltimore. There, he teaches repointing, basic carpentry, and plaster to 10 young adults from marginalized communities, over the course of 16 weeks.
Teaching has always been part of David's career. He has taught craft skills (windows, plaster, masonry, porches, etc.) at the Smithsonian, University of Pennsylvania, Harford Community College, and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. David has been honored to receive the Askins Achievement Award from the Preservation Trades Network (2008) and the Preservation Artisan Award from Preservation Maryland (2019).
A Note From David:
"I have merged my loves of art, old stuff, and working with my hands by creating a 50-year career in Historic Preservation, a career that will never be replaced by AI or robots. In my retirement, I'm sharing my skills and knowledge with anyone willing to learn. I live with my wife, Sarah, and dog, Jack, near the Appalachian Trail in Smithsburg, Maryland, where we operate two Airbnb's."
Training Completed:
Beyond Hands-On Instructor Training (BHIT)
Instructor Competencies:
Blacksmithing (bronze casting, lost wax casting)
Building Analysis
Historic Preservation
Masonry (brick, cleaning, repointing)
Master Carpenter
Plaster
Stucco
Windows (repair and restoration of wood-framed windows and window glass)
-
Register
- Early bird pricing available!
- Public - $400
- Administrator - $400
- Apprentice - $400
- Regular Price after 04/01/2026 11:59 PM
- Public - $450
- Administrator - $450
- Apprentice - $450
- More Information
-
Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 04/17/2026 at 8:15 AM (EDT)
Learn drystone wall repair in a two-day, hands-on workshop scheduled for April 17-18, 2026. Early bird registration: $400 (register by March 14). Normal registration: $450 (register by April 12).
Dates: April 17-18, 2026
Time: 8:15 AM – 4:30 PM each day
Location: Gathland State Park, 900 Arnoldstown Road, Jefferson, MD 21755Parking Lot Coordinates: 39.404680337315256, -77.64031604677345
Class Size Limit: 8 participants
Overview
Join us for a two-day hands-on drystone workshop focused on repairing and constructing dry-laid stone walls. Under the guidance of Neil Rippingale, participants will learn traditional drystone techniques and practice using both real-world conditions and controlled training environments.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
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Repair and rebuild sections of existing stone walls on-site
-
Practice drystone techniques
-
Learn about stone selection, placement, stability, and proper drainage for drystone construction
-
Work side-by-side with skilled instructors in a supportive, hands-on learning environment
Tuition & Registration
Early bird registration: $400 (register by March 14).
Normal registration: $450 (register by April 12).
Deadline to signup is April 12, 2026
Your registration includes access to two full days of expert instruction, guided hands-on experience, and all required materials and tools.
Payment details and further information will be provided in your registration confirmation email.
Location and Travel for Training
Training Dates: April 17-18, 2026
Day 1 Meeting Address: 900 Arnoldstown Road, Jefferson, MDParticipants are responsible for their own travel, housing, meals, and refreshments.
Please plan to arrive on time for check-in on Day 1. Meet at 8:15 a.m. (Eastern Time).
Learning Goals
You’ll learn through a combination of instruction and hands-on restoration work. The focus is on practical drystone wall construction and repair techniques.
Day 1
8:15 a.m. Sign in and registration
8:30 a.m. Classroom session
History of the Craft, Dry Stone Construction, Basic Fundamentals
9:30 a.m. Coffee Break (15 minutes)
9:45 a.m. Certification review
Different Levels, Requirements, & Certification Centers
10:15 a.m. Start work on damaged drystone wall
Safe Lifting Techniques, Methodology, Dismantle Procedure
12.00 p.m. Lunch Break (30 minutes)
12:30 p.m. Return to work site and continue to build
Use of Lines & Frames
4:00 p.m. Recap
Review Fundamentals, Tidy the Site, Questions
Day 2
8:15 a.m. Recap on previous day
8:30 a.m. Emphasis on packing and building techniques
How to Shape Stone
9:30 a.m. Coffee Break (15 minutes)
9:45 a.m. Continue to build
Tool Selection and Uses
12:00 p.m. Lunch (30 minutes)
12:30 p.m. Return to site
Coping and Cap Assembly
4:00 p.m. Recap
Review Fundamentals, Tidy the Site, Questions & Answers, Evaluations, Certificates
What to Bring
To ensure safety and comfort during the workshop, all participants should bring:
-
Closed-toe shoes (required)
-
Water bottle, snacks, and lunch
-
Sunscreen or sunblock
-
Hat or sun protection, rain protection (check the weather before you go)
Clothing you don't mind getting dirty
Accessibility Considerations
This workshop involves lifting, standing, kneeling, and working near the ground. If you have accessibility concerns or questions about physical requirements, contact the course administrator before registering.
FAQs
1. When is the workshop scheduled?
The workshop will take place over two days: Friday, April 17th and Saturday, April 18th.
2. Where will the workshop be held?
On April 17, everyone will check in at 900 Arnoldstown Road, Jefferson, MD.
The Parking Lot Coordinates are 39.404680337315256, -77.64031604677345. You can also enter "Gathland State Park Parking Lot, MD" into a GPS or map app on your phone.
3. How much does the workshop cost?
Early bird registration: $400 (register by March 14).
Normal registration: $450 (register by April 12).Other expenses, such as travel and housing, are NOT included in the cost. Registrants must arrange and pay for their own travel, housing, and food expenses.
4. Who are the instructors?
The workshop instructor is Neil Rippingale.
5. What topics will be covered in the workshop?
Participants will learn dry stone wall fundamentals, stone selection, wall construction and repair, proper drainage and stability techniques, and hands-on practice with existing walls.
6. What are the daily hours of the workshop?
The workshops will run for eight hours each day. General start/end times may vary each day. Day 1, please arrive by 8:15 a.m. for check-in. Learners will receive information about their daily activities once on-site.
7. Who should attend this workshop?
This course is open to beginners, tradespeople, preservationists, and anyone interested in learning more about historic masonry.
8. Do I need any prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary. All materials and tools will be provided.
9. What should I bring to the workshop?
All necessary materials, tools, and PPE will be provided. Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on work and bring any personal items they may need for a full day of activities. All participants must wear closed-toe shoes. Suggested items to bring include a water bottle, snacks, lunch, sunblock, and kneepads. Wear clothes that can get dirty or be damaged.
10. Are there any additional activities included in the workshop?
There are no planned activities. Learners may explore the local area on their own.
11. How do I register for the workshop?
Register on this website.
12. Is travel and accommodation included in the workshop fee?
No, participants are responsible for their own travel, food, and accommodation arrangements.
13. What is the maximum number of attendees for the workshop?
The maximum number of attendees is 8.
14. What happens if registration is full?
Once registration reaches 8 participants, please email kpratt@historictrades.org to be added to a waitlist.
15. What is your refund policy?
The Campaign can process refund requests UP TO fourteen days before the start date of the event. No refunds will be issued in the fourteen days before the start date of the event. This is measured at 12:01 am EST on the listed start date of the event. Please email learn@historictrades.org with the subject line REFUND REQUEST, with your name, event details, and total amount in the email body. The Campaign will refund 75% on the total you paid for the event; our payment processer will deduct processing fees from your total refund amount. Funds will appear in your account within 30 days of the refund being processed.
$i++ ?>Neil Rippingale
Master Stone Mason
N.R. Stonecraft
Neil, originally from Edinburgh, Scotland, has just celebrated over 25 years working throughout the length and breadth of the United States of America, 43 States to be precise. Neil’s passion and dedication for stonework have been witnessed by the teaching and training of over 7,500 trainees during a 35-year career. This opportunity was helped along the way by the Dry Stone Conservancy, as the Training Program Manager, laying strong foundations, especially in his home state of Kentucky. It was during this 15-year experience that Neil received the Askins Achievement Award in 2010.
Neil is only one of four dual-certified master stone masons in America who hold the DWSA (Dry Stone Walling Association of GB). & the DSC ( Dry Stone Conservancy ) Master Craftsman Certification. Currently, Neil is the President of the Dry Stone Conservancy based in Lexington, Kentucky.
-
Register
- Early bird pricing available!
- Public - $400
- Administrator - $400
- Apprentice - $400
- Regular Price after 03/15/2026 12:00 AM
- Public - $450
- Administrator - $450
- Apprentice - $450
- More Information
-
-
Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 04/10/2026 at 8:30 AM (EDT)
Learn historic window repair in a two-day, hands-on workshop in Frederick, Maryland, scheduled for April 10-11, 2026. Cost: $400.
Dates: April 10-11, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM each day
Location: 6129 Butterfly Lane, Frederick, MD 21703
Class Size Limit: 15 participantsRegistration Deadline: April 4, 2026
Overview
Join us for a two-day hands-on masonry workshop focused on repointing the foundation of a historic barn. Under the guidance of Master Craftsman David Gibney, participants will learn and practice traditional repointing techniques using both real-world conditions and controlled training environments.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
-
Repoint a historic barn foundation on-site
-
Practice techniques using mock-up masonry panels (both individual and large-scale panels will be available)
-
Learn about materials, tooling, and site preparation for masonry repointing
-
Work side-by-side with seasoned instructors in a supportive environment
Tuition & Registration
Cost: $400 per participant
Your registration includes access to two full days of expert instruction, guided hands-on experience, and all required materials and tools. Payment details and further information will be provided in your registration confirmation email.
Location and Travel for Training
Training Dates: April 10-11
Day 1 Meeting Address: 6129 Butterfly Lane, Frederick, MD 21703Participants are responsible for their own travel, housing, meals, and refreshments. Please plan to arrive on time for check-in on Day 1. Meet at 8:30 a.m. EDT.
Learning Goals
You’ll learn through a combination of classroom-style instruction and hands-on restoration work. The focus is on practical techniques and real-world conditions.
Day 1: Foundation, Philosophy, and Hands-On Work
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
-
Welcome & Check-in
-
Safety briefing and gear check
-
Site walkthrough and introductions
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
-
Introduction to masonry repointing
-
Importance in preservation
-
Mortar basics and historic compatibility
-
Tools and materials overview
-
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
-
Demonstration: Mock-up panels
-
Hands-on: Tool familiarization and practice on small mock-up panels
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
-
Lunch (bring your own)
1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
-
Hands-on: Joint preparation and repointing on large mock-up panels
-
Begin work on barn foundation if ready
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
-
Cleanup
Day 1 recap, Q&A, and prep for Day 2
Day 2: Site Repointing & Refining Skills
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
-
Morning check-in and safety refresh
-
Review Day 1 lessons and questions
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
-
Hands-on: Repointing historic barn foundation
-
Guidance from instructors on tool use, joint packing, finish technique
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
-
Lunch (bring your own)
1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
-
Continued repointing: rotating between barn foundation and mock-ups
-
Troubleshooting common issues
-
Final touch-ups and mortar care
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
-
Wrap-up discussion
-
Instructor feedback and Q&A
-
Clean-up and secure site
What to Bring
To ensure safety and comfort during the workshop, all participants should bring:
-
Closed-toe shoes (required)
-
Sunscreen or sunblock
-
Hat or sun protection
-
Knee pads or a pad for kneeling (participants will be working close to the ground)
-
Personal items: snacks, lunch, a water bottle
Be sure to wear clothes that you are okay with getting dirty. Long pants and long sleeves are required.
Accessibility Requirements
Please note: This workshop involves extended standing, kneeling, and sitting on the ground to access foundation-level masonry. If you have accessibility concerns or questions about physical requirements, please contact the course administrator before registering.
FAQs
1. When is the workshop scheduled?
The workshop will take place over two days: Friday, April 10th and Saturday, April 11th.
2. Where will the workshop be held?
On April 10, everyone will check in at 6129 Butterfly Lane, Frederick, MD 21703
3. How much does the workshop cost?
The total cost of the workshop is $400. Other expenses, such as travel and housing, are NOT included in the cost. Registrants must arrange and pay for their own travel, housing, and food expenses.
4. Who are the instructors?
The instructor for the workshop is David Gibney.
5. What topics will be covered in the workshop?
Participants in this two-day workshop will learn the fundamentals of historic masonry repointing through both classroom-style instruction and hands-on practice. Key topics include mortar composition and compatibility, joint preparation, proper repointing techniques, tool handling, and finishing methods. Learners will gain experience working on small and large mock-up panels as well as a real historic barn foundation, applying preservation principles in a practical setting under the guidance of expert instructors.
6. What are the daily hours of the workshop?
The workshops will run for eight hours each day. General start/end times may vary each day. Day 1, please arrive by 8:30 a.m. for check-in. Learners will receive information about their daily activities once on-site.
7. Who should attend this workshop?
This course is open to beginners, tradespeople, preservationists, and anyone interested in learning more about historic masonry.
8. Do I need any prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary. All materials and tools will be provided.
9. What should I bring to the workshop?
All necessary materials, tools, and PPE will be provided. Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on work and bring any personal items they may need for a full day of activities. All participants must wear closed-toe shoes. Suggested items to bring include a water bottle, snacks, lunch, sunblock, and kneepads. Wear clothes that can get dirty or be damaged. Long pants and long sleeves are required.
10. Are there any additional activities included in the workshop?
There are no planned activities. Learners may explore the local area on their own.
11. How do I register for the workshop?
Register on this website.
12. Is travel and accommodation included in the workshop fee?
No, participants are responsible for their own travel, food, and accommodation arrangements.
13. What is the maximum number of attendees for the workshop?
The maximum number of attendees is 15.
14. What happens if registration is full?
Once registration reaches 15 participants, please email kpratt@historictrades.org to be added to a waitlist.
15. What is your refund policy?
The Campaign can process refund requests UP TO fourteen days before the start date of the event. No refunds will be issued in the fourteen days before the start date of the event. This is measured at 12:01 am EST on the listed start date of the event. Please email learn@historictrades.org with the subject line REFUND REQUEST, with your name, event details, and total amount in the email body. The Campaign will refund 75% on the total you paid for the event; our payment processer will deduct processing fees from your total refund amount. Funds will appear in your account within 30 days of the refund being processed.
$i++ ?>David Gibney
Expert Craftsman
Self-Employed, Retired
David first learned historic preservation skills in the 1980's through the "Restoration Workshop," a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP). He managed his own preservation company for 40 years, completing preservation and restoration projects ranging from simple African American churches (Tolson's Chapel, Sharpsburg, MD) to Founding Father's estates (Homewood, Baltimore Maryland and Doughoregan Manor, Howard County, Maryland). Some of his skills include repairing and replacing flat plaster, cast plaster, and plaster molding and medallions. In addition, he has repaired and reinstalled wood shutters, repaired timber frame barns, and completed traditional exterior stucco. In his retirement, he is focused on passing on his skills and knowledge through projects with HistoriCorps and the NTHP's HOPE (Hands-On Preservation Experience) Program. David's biggest challenge and greatest reward is working with the Accomplished Arts Apprentices program through the Peale Museum in Baltimore. There, he teaches repointing, basic carpentry, and plaster to 10 young adults from marginalized communities, over the course of 16 weeks.
Teaching has always been part of David's career. He has taught craft skills (windows, plaster, masonry, porches, etc.) at the Smithsonian, University of Pennsylvania, Harford Community College, and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. David has been honored to receive the Askins Achievement Award from the Preservation Trades Network (2008) and the Preservation Artisan Award from Preservation Maryland (2019).
A Note From David:
"I have merged my loves of art, old stuff, and working with my hands by creating a 50-year career in Historic Preservation, a career that will never be replaced by AI or robots. In my retirement, I'm sharing my skills and knowledge with anyone willing to learn. I live with my wife, Sarah, and dog, Jack, near the Appalachian Trail in Smithsburg, Maryland, where we operate two Airbnb's."
Training Completed:
Beyond Hands-On Instructor Training (BHIT)
Instructor Competencies:
Blacksmithing (bronze casting, lost wax casting)
Building Analysis
Historic Preservation
Masonry (brick, cleaning, repointing)
Master Carpenter
Plaster
Stucco
Windows (repair and restoration of wood-framed windows and window glass)
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Register
- Public - $400
- Administrator - $400
- Apprentice - $400
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