I'm writing this recommendation to thank and laud, Mr. Robin Raymer, and his daughter, Miranda, for the wonderful plastering training experience I had on October 10, 2017 at his temporary workshop in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. I happened to find Mr. Raymer's site, Plasterzone.com, incidentally during a Google search eight months ago for plastering DIY plastering training. I live in a 1890s Brownstone, with the original plastered walls and ceilings, so my motive for learning to plaster was to repair these areas myself without having to pay the exorbitant and often unreasonable prices required for the plaster restoration work in NYC. At the end of the course, what I received was remarkable, and I am truly fortunate to have been Mr. Raymer's pupil for seven hours. Unfortunately, few plasterers in NYC wanted to teach the basics of plastering for various reasons, both personal and pecuniary, but Robin was more than willing to travel to NYC and teach me the essentials of professional plaster repair. I emphasize professional, because the training was identical to that of old world, apprentice plasterers, which Robin said in jest are far superior to the "joint compound kings" of the 21st century. We negotiated a reasonable price for a one-day course, and coincidentally, Robin was working on a large restoration site in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, which was conveniently within walking distance from my own house. When I arrived on site, Robin greeted me, then began his training, with an excellent discussion of the plastering trade's history, methodologies, and uses, ranging from traditional materials, modern techniques, to actual application of the material. The class was lecture, hands-on based, and very effective. Mr. Raymer kindly explained the advantages and disadvantages of materials ranging from USG brand joint compound, to Durabond, Structolite, Perilite, to Plaster of Paris, and the innate qualities of each material. Mr. Raymer instructed me on the best mixes, how to prepare them myself, apply the material to a variety of surfaces, and particularly, how to estimate plaster repair costs, that is, if I do decide to pursue work as a plasterer part-time. I cannot recommend Robin enough. The training was invaluable and his congenial demeanor, profound wisdom of plastering and his true passion for the trade was remarkable. He truly has an earnest interest in his students and is a true, honorable purveyor of knowledge that wants to breathe life into a respectable art that is now dying in America. His skill as a plasterer for 30 years was impressive, and I learned skills I will never forget for the rest of my life. At the end of the course, Robin magnanimously offered me ALL of the materials, tools and supplies for free, as well as provided me a gift signed plasterer's trowel to remember him by for posterity. The day ended on a high note when Mr. Raymer paid for car service to help me transport the 80 lbs of materials and tools he graciously provided free of charge. Mr. Raymer travels the country to train clients, give home improvement seminars, and consult high profile clients on plaster restoration work. Not all contractors are mercenary, and Mr. Raymer and his daughter taught me that human decency is far from dead in this world. If one has an earnest desire to learn plastering, whether it be for the goal of DIY restoration work, or to enter the trade as an apprentice, Robin will train you well or help network you with some of the industry's giants to help you start your career. Thank you again for a wonderful learning experience! You have made a life-long friend and client. read more
