Hemp Slap Workshop 2.0

A three-day residential workshop on hemp-lime construction, held in an old family home in Chola village, Dharamshala. You work on real walls with real materials, not in a classroom, and learn the science and the craft from the ground up. Hemp-lime is carbon-negative, breathable and older than cement.

Arrival is on 1 October; the workshop runs 2, 3 and 4 October. Maximum 20 seats.

What you do:

• Day 1, theory and mix making: the science behind hempcrete and hemp-lime plaster. You make the mixes yourself, in different ratios side by side, and learn to read consistency by hand.
• Day 2, hempcrete blocks: a full hands-on day. You set up formwork, cast actual hempcrete blocks, tamp and observe, and leave knowing the difference between a good block and a bad one.
• Day 3, hemp plastering and closing: watch a master plasterer apply hemp-lime plaster on the actual wall of the house while the lead trainer explains every move, then try it yourself. The day ends with final discussions, certificates and a closing ceremony.

The team:

• Haneesh Katnawer, lead trainer: 9 years in hemp, National Startup Award winner.
• Anita Devi, craft demonstrator: master plasterer, 10 years in traditional crafts.
• Maya Kalsi, co-host and workshop manager: your host at her childhood home in Dharamshala.
• Simon Funkel, co-host and creative director: DJ, storyteller, builder.

Pricing, GST inclusive:

• Without accommodation: ₹7,900
• Double occupancy room: ₹9,900
• Single occupancy room: ₹11,900

All meals are included across the three days. Full payment is due at registration.

Who it is for:

• Architecture, design or engineering students wanting hands-on natural building experience.
• Builders or craftspeople curious about low-carbon alternatives to cement.
• People in sustainability, ecology or rural development who want a practical material skill.
• Travellers and creative people who want to make something real with their hands.
• Anyone curious about hemp as a building material.

No prior experience required.

Included:

• Three days of hands-on training
• All meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea breaks
• All materials: hemp hurd, lime, tools, PPE
• Certificate of completion from Himalayan Hemp Industries
• A material reference guide to take home
• Accommodation, for those who choose the residential option

Organised by Himalayan Hemp Industries Pvt. Ltd., India's first hemp construction crew and National Startup Award winners, as part of the Hemp Slap eco-construction ecosystem.