Earth Home Building Course
Hands-on natural building with earthbag, cob, and pallet methods — learn to create resilient, beautiful homes using sand, straw, and soil.
Practice earthbag, cob, and pallet walls, mix natural plaster, and learn foundations, roof options, and finishes.
Breakfast & lunch provided on-site by TGIA Farms (omnivore & carnivore). Vegan? We’ve got you — tell us your needs.
Free airport pickup. Dry camping welcome (no fires). Off-site lodging: Catalina Inn (~20 minutes).
What You’ll Learn
- ✔ Earthbag, cob, & pallet wall systems
- ✔ Natural plaster: mixing & application
- ✔ Foundations & structural basics
- ✔ Roof strategies & weather protection
- ✔ Off-grid systems: solar, water catchment, composting
- ✔ Team builds & site safety
Arrival: Wednesday afternoon • Departure: Sunday mid-day (weekend) or next Wednesday (full week).
Daily flow: Breakfast → Morning build → Lunch → Afternoon workshop. Dinner is on your own (nearby Chaparral Restaurant is a great option).
Hosted at the TGIA Farms Demonstration Site in collaboration with AZ Sunstead.
Lodging & Shelter
Bring your own tent, camper, trailer, or RV. No fires allowed. Quiet hours observed.
Catalina Inn in Catalina, AZ is ~20 minutes away and convenient for a hot shower and a soft bed.
We offer free pickup & drop-off for students who need a ride. Let us know your flight details after registering.
Tuition & Options
Returning students get discounts on refresher classes. Membership signup available during registration.
Instructor & Teacher Opportunities
We welcome credentialed instructors to teach or assist. You’ll be featured for your unique techniques and perspectives — from cob artistry to earthbag speed builds.
Instructors receive a discounted participation rate.
Our goal is to expose students to multiple approaches to earth-built homes. If you specialize in a certain style, we’d love to feature you.
Register Now
Choose weekend or full-week, note dietary preferences (omnivore, carnivore, vegan), and tell us if you need airport pickup.
After submitting, you’ll be guided to payment. You may also apply for AZ Sunstead membership as part of checkout.
FAQs
What should I bring?
Closed-toe shoes/boots, gloves, hat, refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and clothes you don’t mind getting muddy. Camping gear if staying on-site.
Do you accommodate vegan meals?
Yes. Breakfast and lunch include carnivore and omnivore options. Vegan students: please tell us your preferences on the registration form.
Where exactly is the course?
At the TGIA Farms Demonstration Site in Saddlebrooke, Arizona — hosted in collaboration with AZ Sunstead.
Can I come back for a refresher?
Absolutely — returning students receive discounted refresher pricing.
Are fires allowed at camp?
No open fires are permitted. Dry camping only.