Timber Framing

This course will give students a foundational education in timber framing while they work as a group to build and complete a timber frame pavilion. Students will gain an understanding of the materials, tools and safety standards used in the timber framing industry.

Students will receive hands-on experience laying out, cutting, and assembling traditional joinery. At the same time, they will explore more modern methods of assembly, such as using structural screws. Students will learn square rule timber framing and intermediate framing square use.

On the last day of class, students raise the structure – a chance not only to celebrate their hard work, but also an opportunity to learn best practices of raising and rigging.

The timber frame structure is available for purchase after the course for the cost of materials (generally $7,000-$8,000). There two A Frame designs and one Truss Frame design to choose from. Buyer is responsible for moving the timbers and assembling at their desired location. If you purchase the structure, you can take the course for free. The purchaser of the timber frame determines the style being built in each class.