Cob building
The making of and building in cob (also known as ‘cobb’, ‘clom’ or ‘clay lump’), a natural building material made from subsoil, water, organic fibrous material such as straw, and sometimes lime.
| Status | Currently viable |
| Craft category | Walling and hedging; Building crafts |
| Historic area of significance | Global |
| Area currently practised | Devon and Cornwall predominantly |
| Origin in the UK | |
| Current no. of professionals (main income) | 6-10 |
| Current no. of professionals (sideline to main income) |
21-50 |
| Current no. of trainees | 1-5 |
| Current total no. serious amateur makers |
6-10 |
| Current total no. of leisure makers |
6-10 |
| Minimum no. of craftspeople required |
History
Techniques
- Understanding the characteristics of cob and its place in our built environment.
- Understanding correct mixing processes and building techniques
Local forms
The basic ingredients are similar world-wide. However, there are regional names [of this medium] that vary.
Sub-crafts
Issues affecting the viability of the craft
- Lack of regulation
- Lack of proper training and opportunities to train
- There are many people who incorporate some cob building into their work, but only a few remaining experienced practitioners to pass on skills.
Support organisations
Craftspeople currently known
- The Cob Specialist
- Earth Blocks
- Heritage Cob and Lime
- Mike Wye Associates
- Kevin McCabe
- Matt Robinson
Other information
If experienced practitioners drop away altogether our historic built environment will be impacted upon
References
