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windows allowing sufficient wire to wrap around to the frames. As each strip ofchicken wire is added, overlap with the previous section by about an inch. Then sewthe two strips together with steel wire.Corners and edges that are exposed to the outside side of the walls should be linedwith a plastic membrane (vapor barrier). These should never be used throughout only where the stucco will eventually make contact with the posts, beams, windowsand doors. This will deter moisture from leaking through the walls and into thehome at these edges. It is important that any moisture that does penetrate the walleventually be able to evaporate and flow away from the wall. Make sure these smallareas of vapour barrier do not have any cups that might trap water.Laying the Straw Bale WallNow that you are ready to stack the bales it is important to have prepared some oddsized bales for corners and ends. Have a group of people prepare one third and twothird bales by cutting the baling twine and re-tying the two parts. This turns wholebales into pairs of one-third and two-thirds bales. Make as many of these as youthink may be required for the number of ends and corners in your structure (seepictures below).Lay the straw bales one layer at a time. Complete the firs t layer, stuff any unusualgaps with loose straw against the chicken wire to ensure no gaps exist. This is criticalto ensuring a consistent level of insulation throughout the entire wall. Any gaps orair pockets will severely affect the insulation capacity of the walls. Dont leave anygaps between the bales. Once each row is properly filled you can begin the next row.Offset the next row by half a bale, just as a bricklayer would offset the bricks witheach row. This ensures a stronger wall. With each row , ensure no gaps or cracksexist. Fill these with loose straw before continuing to the next level.As you stack bales around doors, windows and corner it may be necessary to insertone-third and two-thirds bales to ensure a good tight fit. Watch for bulge s or balesstacked the wrong way as these will create areas of weakness, less insulation levelsand unusual shapes. Keep in mind that it is possible to create and place artwork,shelves, tables and larger than normal window sills, stools, storage spaces and muchmore. Use your imagination with care though, as some ideas may not be what youwant for the long term and changing things can be difficult.While stacking the first layer, the electrical outlet boxes should be attached to apiece of 2x8 lumber and laid on the bales before stacking the next layer. All145