Stone brings a timeless elegance to interior and exterior design. Stone is both stylish and classic. It brings solid tradition to contemporary settings and adds a flair of minimalism to traditional surroundings. An elemental substance that brings beauty and permanence wherever it is used, stone is at home everywhere. Charles McRaven, a dedicated stonemason for more than 50 years, brings his practical experience and deep respect for the material to The Stone Primer, the essential guide for homeowners interested in adding stone to any setting, indoors or out. Here is everything readers will want to consider when beginning a do-it-yourself project, hiring a professional stonemason to carry out a difficult design, or simply planning and dreaming in stone. Know the properties of common types of stone. Choose, collect, and move the right stones for the project. Place them in perfect layers, make them fit with the proper tools, and learn the basics of drystacking and mortaring. McRaven covers it all in detaiied how-to chapters, embellished with anecdotes, historical titbits, and profiles of noted masons.