Moroccan Carved Plaster (Gebs): What to Ask

Before you agree on plasterwork

• Real photos of the maâlem's work
• What you want: decorative carved plaster, plaster repair or a simple finishing touch
• The design, the surface area, the corners and the joins
• What the price includes: transport, repairs and the finish

Step by step

1. 1

   Tell the maâlem clearly what you want

   In your first conversation with the maâlem

   Say whether you want decorative carved plaster, plaster repair or just a final finish on the wall or ceiling. The word "plaster" covers very different jobs: the agreement should say what will be done, where, and with what finish.

2. 2

   Look closely at the drawing and carving

   In photos or at the workshop

   The Hassan II Mosque Foundation explains how the plaster is prepared, how the design is traced with a template and then carved layer by layer, in geometric, calligraphic and plant patterns. Ask for close-up and wide photos, so you can see whether the lines are harmonious and the details crisp.

3. 3

   Get everything clear before you start

   Before the deposit

   Have the surface area, layers, design, finish, repairs, transport, timing and what happens if a crack or defect appears all written down. Plasterwork decorates, but it doesn't prove the building itself is sound.

4. 4

   Choose a maâlem nearby whose work you can see

   Among the plasterers and cooperatives on Hdaya

   Look at the maâlem's own work, ask who will actually do the job, and send photos of the place and the measurements. On Hdaya, you can see photos of maâlems’ work before you contact them.

Questions people ask