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June 1-5, 2026
9am-5pm each day
This class creates a supportive and encouraging space for people who identify as FLINTA to learn and practice the craft of timber framing with traditional hand tools.
Timber framing is the craft of joining wooden timbers without nails or metal fasteners. These structures are thoughtful, durable, and designed to last for generations. In this class, students learn the fundamentals of layout and joinery while working with chisels, saws, and other hand tools.
For this class, we will be supporting Avon Hills Folk School’s 1889 Barn Restoration Project by cutting new timbers needed to restore the old barn. The barn has already been disassembled and the timbers have been assessed. This is not a restoration class, but the new timbers cut during this class will become part of the final structure during the spring 2027 Barn Raising. Students will be invited to join the raising.
Participants will gain hands-on experience laying out square rule timber frame joinery, cutting mortise and tenon joints with traditional and modern hand tools, and understanding how timber frames work as a system. By the end of the class, students leave with the foundational skills needed to continue their timber framing practice.
Schedule
Day One: Introduction to timber framing history, design, and beginning square rule layout.
Day Two and Three: Cutting mortises and tenons with hand tools.
Day Four: Learning to cut wind braces, and continuing to work on individual pieces.
Day Five: Students complete their timbers and test-fit joints.
Tuition: $595.00
Materials: $20
This course is for adults 18+.
Tools will be provided for students, but you are welcome to bring your own. A tool list will be provided during the registration process.