Stone Primer

I am thinking of doing some stone work INSIDE my house. I looked around and I got this book through interlibrary loan. I liked it so much that I ordered a copy. It has quite a few pictures, but they are interesting and show how things are put together (in addition to diagrams). The narrative supports the pictures with descriptions of how it is done and suggestions for underlayment and support. It also suggests types of stones to use and gave me some good ideas for design. A good investment that I will look at again and again.

This book is full of ideas but light on technique. If you are looking for a book to teach you how to work with stone this is not it.

Great book, I had already built some small stone walls, I learned a lot from this, it also gave me insight when I went to build a retaining wall from a pre-fab system. Great resource for structure and looks. If you are thinking about building with stone, it will be around for a very long time, hopefully, you should do it right.

First read as a Library book among other books on the same subject by various authors i quickly came to realize that Mr. McRaven's work style, attention to detail was a very good fit for my interest level in the construction of stone walls, etc. His detailed information speaks volumes to his experience and high skill level. His 1997 book, STONEWORK and now this 2007 book STONE PRIMER are all i need to further my apprenticeship as a stone mason.

I used this book while building a stone retaining wall. It's covered in dirt and grime because I had it out there with me for the first few weekends of work. I also used online resources as well. The wall came out looking awesome.

To be honest, I'm not done yet. That said, the author is pulling me into the next chapter with a skill I don't usually notice in how-to books. He's got me believing that I can do it although it's not a trivial skill. I especially appreciate the emphasis of what's important and why.My grandiose ambitions are starting already . . .

This guy lives near us and I was fascinated at his stone work. Buy the book if you work with stone. You'll learn alot

I have build with stone before. This book shows some basic techniques, provides ideas, design concepts and inspiration. Just looking through the pictures is enjoyable.