May 16-17, 2026 (Saturday-Sunday)

Two-day!

at Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, KY

This two-day retaining wall masonry workshop, May 16-17 (Saturday-Sunday), will take place at Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, KY. Participants will receive instruction on a retaining wall on the historic Maker’s Mark Distillery campus. This workshop will be led by DSC/DSWA Master Craftsman, Neil Rippingale.

Participants will see that many wonderful dry stone structures on site, including the double barrel bridge that participants will be working near.

A distillery tour and tasting will follow the workshop. This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to build a little bit at Maker’s Mark.

Below is an example of the daily agenda:

DAY ONE:

8:30a - Classroom session and presentation covering the basics and fundamentals, safety, and what you can expect for the rest of the workshop. Coffee and donuts provided.

10:30a - Review of basics, on-site. Tear down section of wall, prepare site for foundation, lay proper foundation.

12p - Lunch, provided

1p - Setting up frames and lines, begin build

4p - Review / Q and A

DAY TWO:

8:30a - Review of previous day, finish build (if needed), start new section

12p - Lunch, provided

1p - Finish second section

4p - Review / Q and A / Course Evaluations

Introductory Workshops are designed for drystone enthusiasts with little to no previous experience who would like to gain a basic understanding of dry stone construction techniques. The pace will be comfortable and participants will learn the fundamental skills needed to build and repair a typical rock fence or retaining wall.

Payments are refundable (less a $25 cancellation fee) only if we hear from you at least two weeks prior to the first day of your workshop. Deposits and payments are otherwise nonrefundable.