This second edition is designed to fulfill three objectives. First, and most importantly, it provides a thorough and practical groundwork for the apprentice at all stages of his training. Second, the expanded and updated text (accompanied by a great many new illustrations and charts) can serve as a refresher and reference for the practicing journeyman. Third, the new text briefly covers several closely related building trades as these affect the plasterer's operations. While these aims are extensive, the practicality of the material presented is well established.