Cob is a mixture of subsoil, straw and water. When these elements are combined together they can be used in various ways for building.

To achieve a successful building medium, the soil must be free of large stones and must have clay content as this, once dried, will harden and give the wall its strength. Straw is as important as the stalks will bind the soil together.

Barley straw is the most commonly used binder in the production of cob in Cornwall and the South West of England. Continue reading →