Drystone Walling with David Da Costa
What is drystone walling, what makes it important to craft, and how can someone learn about it? Based in the Yorkshire Dales, David Da Costa received a QEST grant in 2022 to further his skills — and here he shares what drystone walling is all about.
Can you introduce yourself and your craft practice?
Hello there, my name is David Da Costa and I have been Drystone Walling for 2 years. Drystone Walling is a traditional practice where the walls are built using stacked stones without any cement or mortar! Each stone is carefully placed in a way that creates a very strong structure that lasts for many years to come. The stone is sourced from local quarries making it eco-friendly and provide shelter for various animals and plants!
What is Drystone Walling?
Drystone walling is a traditional construction technique that involves building walls by carefully stacking stones without the use of mortar to bind them together. The stability of the wall comes from the skilful placement and interlocking of the stones, relying on gravity and friction. This method has been used for centuries, especially in rural and agricultural landscapes, to create boundaries, terraces, and shelters. Drystone walls are durable, environmentally friendly, and often blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings.
How is it used in craft, and what makes it important?
Drystone walling is important because it’s environmentally friendly, provides habitats for wildlife and lasts for centuries. It also preserves cultural heritage while blending beautifully into the landscape!
Are there different types or variations?
There are different types of walls depending on the type of stone used to build it. For example, in the Yorkshire dales you will have a mix of limestone and sandstone whereas Lakeland walls are primarily built with slate! You can also create features with the walls such as curves or arches just to name a few.
Where can someone learn more or see this in action?
If you really want to learn Drystone Walling, the best place to learn is at one of the many DSWA sites around the UK. The Drystone Walling Association (DSWA) is a UK-based organization that works to preserve and promote the traditional craft of drystone walling. They support training, run certification schemes, and help keep the skill alive by connecting like-minded people!
For everything you need to know — head to dswa.org.uk
