El Jicarito Earthbag School Update

Progress on El Jicarito earthbag school continues
Progress on El Jicarito earthbag school continues

“Work continues in El Jicarito School site! The elementary class is almost finished and the preschool is in very good shape! We are getting closer! Thanks to all the groups that have helped over the past weeks, the community, Seeds of Learning and all of you for your support!

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$2,000 DIY Tiny Houses

Adobe T-bricks is just one of many ultra low cost natural building methods.
Adobe T-bricks is just one of many ultra low cost natural building methods.

I love the great ideas coming out of the tiny house movement, and it’s great to see growing interest in this area. One topic that’s not talked about often enough in my opinion is do-it-yourself, super cheap tiny/small houses made of natural materials such as earthbags, straw bales, adobe, compressed earth blocks, recycled wood and so on. The cost difference can be HUGE.

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Small, Simple, Slow and Steady

Blowdowns can be turned into beautiful furniture
Blowdowns can be turned into beautiful furniture

Many people are seeking a quick fix, ‘silver bullet’ solution to their housing situation and life in general. Just look at all the people who buy lottery tickets or go on crash diets for instance. In my experience things in the real world are not quick and easy. Everything of value comes at a cost of time and effort – building a home, homestead, good education, good relationships.

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Brick Domes for Mexico

Steve’s dome home has many design ideas that could be used in a home built with more sustainable materials such as low fired brick.
Steve’s dome home has many design ideas that could be used in a home built with more sustainable materials such as low fired brick.

Email: Mr Geiger, I very much want to build a dome home similar to Steve Areen’s dome. I live in San Miguel de Allende Mexico. I would like to accomplish a nice dome home. I am 61 years of age. I will have at least 3 workers with me. Can you make a recommendation? Thank you, Cathy

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Building Off the Grid TV Show is Looking for Projects

“Hello, I’m a casting director with Warm Springs Productions and the DIY network. The first season of the DIY’s show “Building Off the Grid” was such a huge success that we’re now casting a second season! We’re looking all across the country for folks who will soon be building an off grid dwelling (i.e. starting within in the next few months).

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