When you admire the crisp lines and elegant detail of handmade plaster coving, you’re not just looking at a decorative feature—you’re seeing the result of centuries of British craftsmanship, natural materials, and environmentally conscious production. At the heart of it all lies one key ingredient: gypsum plaster.
What Is Gypsum Plaster?
Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral—calcium sulphate dihydrate—commonly found in sedimentary rock layers. When processed and heated, it becomes a fine, versatile powder known as gypsum plaster. This material has been used in interior design and construction for thousands of years—from ancient Egyptian tombs to grand British period homes.
But where does the gypsum used in handmade British coving come from today?
Sourced from British Soil
The gypsum plaster used in our coving and ceiling roses is sourced right here in the UK, primarily from quarries in the East Midlands. British Gypsum, the country's leading supplier, extracts and processes the material locally, meaning the plaster in our products travels minimal miles from quarry to workshop. That translates into a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to imported or synthetic alternatives.
This short, local supply chain is part of what makes handmade plasterwork not only beautiful—but also environmentally responsible.
Why Gypsum Plaster Is a Green Choice
Gypsum plaster is not just effective and elegant—it's one of the most eco-friendly building materials available today:
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✅ 100% natural and recyclable
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✅ Low embodied energy during production
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✅ Non-toxic and VOC-free, ideal for healthy home environments
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✅ Naturally fire-resistant and breathable
And because our mouldings are crafted to last a lifetime, there's no need for regular replacements—unlike cheaper, mass-produced alternatives made from plastic or polyurethane.
Supporting Traditional British Craftsmanship
Every piece of plaster coving we make is hand-poured and finished by skilled artisans in our Yorkshire workshop. These traditional methods have been passed down through generations, preserving not just the techniques but the values of British heritage manufacturing.
By choosing handcrafted plasterwork, you’re doing more than elevating your interior—you’re supporting local jobs, sustaining rare skills, and investing in quality that honours both the past and the future.
