Thin Section Preparation Workshop

A typical thin section preparation set-up, including a hot plate, glass plates for grinding, petrological microscope and various consumables

Geology Hub is now running one-day thin-section preparation workshops,

New dates to be announced

  • The day will include teaching clients how to prepare a standard geological thin-section from a rock hand sample, including the following stages;

  • Cutting a slice from the sample,

  • Trimming a section sized block,

  • Flattering and polishing the block,

  • Mounting on a glass slide,

  • Grinding the block down to finished thickness,

  • Covering with a glass slip.

The one-day workshop will take place in a garden cabin rock cutting facility, South Orpington area, Kent (5 mins from Junction 4, M25). Nearest Rail station is Orpington, about 1 mile from the training venue. The facility is fully equipped with all required to make standard thin sections by hand.

Thin section thin enough to be semitranslucent, viewed by holding up to nature light

Participants will get the opportunity to prepare their own thin sections by hand. I have an extensive collection of rock samples which can been used to practice making thin sections. However, participants can bring their own hand samples if they prefer. The theoretical aspects of thin section preparation will be covered in a manual/guide book which should be read before the workshop.

The day will start around 9.30am and finishing about 5.00pm, tea/coffee provided throughout the day. 

I will also provide a list of local hotels if overnight accommodation is required. Please contact me for further details and to be added to the waiting list.

Costs of the one-day workshop £150.

£50 Deposit on booking and balance of £100 to be paid 10 days before the workshop day. Invoices will be provided.

This is a bespoken training workshop with only two places available at a time. This is ensure that you get individualised attention and therefore the most out of the training workshop. Safety equipment, such as goggles and ear defenders will be provided on the day. However, as you will be using a rock saw and carborundum grits it advisable to wear or bring clothes which doesn’t matter if they get a bit messy.