How to Build Dry-Stacked Stone Walls: Design and Build Walls, Bridges and Follies Without Mortar

by John Shaw-Rimmington

How to Build Dry-Stacked Stone Walls shows how to build a wall using the traditional method of dry stone masonry in which carefully selected stones are properly stacked and held together without mortar. As well as being beautiful, a dry stone wall is stronger, more stable, and more resistant to climate than a mortared wall. The book features more than 100 full color photographs of walls, bridges and decorative garden elements in various steps of construction as well as illustrations that show the steps and cross sections that illustrate the building methods. Author John Shaw-Rimmington explains how to build a dry stacked stone wall, coursed walling, bridges, follies and more. He explains the important principles that contribute to the structural integrity of each. He covers all of the essential elements of dry stone Shaw-Rimmington then guides the reader through the building process. With dedication to the task and the author's experienced guidance, the only limit is imagination.

Genres: Gardening, Nonfiction, Technology

200 pages, Paperback

Published October 4, 2016

Reviews

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author waxes a little overly poetic at times, but the technical information is great and there are lots of large, detailed images of different types of dry-laid stone work. Very exciting to see all the large, structural projects done with little or no concrete. (They do sometimes use concrete as footings for bridges and such.) A lot more practical than the other stone working books that I picked up, but still inspirational. I’ll be coming back to this one when I finally get my hands on enough stone to make a retaining wall in the garden.

[Tessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Far more than just a how-to, this book is honestly just delightful to read. Truly an ode to the craft of dry-stack walls. Lovely photos too.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

didn't have time to read the whole thing, but really practical info, will reference when needed!