Get Ready to DIY

For many people, the arrival of spring signals the start of home-improvement season. Whether you spent the winter planning your next house project or you’re just ready to learn something new, Restore Michiana returns with lectures and hands-on workshops focusing on old-home rehab essentials.

June 17, 2017 – Re-pointing Brick

Mark Johnson from Madison, IN, leads a day-long hands-on workshop on how to mix mortar, remove and replace damaged bricks, and re-point brick. Tools will be provided.

August 19, 2017 – Window Repair/Restoration

Seth Elder of Dillsboro, IN, shows how to evaluate the condition of vintage windows and demonstrates the basics of wood window repair, including how to improve their energy efficiency.

October 21, 2017 – Woodwork

Goshen, IN, contractor Dave Parcell leads a discussion on the basics of woodworking and how to use stock trim and new materials to replicate wood that cannot be saved.

All lectures take place 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday mornings at the Kizer House, 801 West Washington Street, South Bend. The Re-pointing Brick workshop on June 17 will be held at a historic farmhouse north of Walkerton, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with lunch provided.

Indiana Landmarks and the Historic Preservation Commission of South Bend & St. Joseph County partnered to introduce Restore Michiana in 2006 to promote preservation through education and bolstering skills in traditional trades. Since then, the initiative has included conferences and lectures on the economic and environmental benefits of preservation, hands-on workshops, and on-site rehabilitation projects.

For more information on the series or to register for the 2017 sessions, visit www.restoremichiana.com or contact Deb Parcell at the Historic Preservation Commission of South Bend & St. Joseph County, 574-235-97908, dparcell@co.st-joseph.in.us.