Timber Framing Class in South Carolina

Heartwood on the Road: Timber Framing in South Carolina

February 16-22, 2026

$1,630

We’re taking our core curriculum on the Road! Join us in South Carolina to learn the basics of timber framing. Timber framing is a traditional framing technique that is incorporated into all building projects at the Heartwood School. In this class, we will lay out and cut the joinery for a complete frame and assemble it, and then raise it at the end of the course.

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The craft of timber framing has had a long history in architecture. Timber frame structures are well known for their unique beauty and the ability to withstand the test of time. Consisting of mortise and tenon joinery, timber frame structures are a delight to build, provide timeless beauty, and are stronger than basic conventional structures. In this class, we will layout and cut the joinery for a complete timber frame, assemble the bents and follow it up with a good old-fashioned hand raising.

Students in this class will learn to layout and cut joinery using the traditional square rule method developed in the 1800s. Timber framing using the traditional square rule method allows the builder to use rough sawn timbers to construct the frame. Students in this class will have the opportunity to cut joinery using hand tools and will safely integrate power tool use into the cutting of the timbers. Participants will learn proper hand tool use, maintenance and sharpening techniques. The instructors will provide demonstrations of how to layout and cut a mortise and tenon, how to layout and cut braces, how to layout and cut step lap rafter seats, and more.

This class will culminate with a hand raising of the newly cut timber frame. Students in this class will learn many aspects of traditional timber framing that should provide the basic skills and confidence to help them plan for and build their own timber frame structure in the future.