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Timber Framing

Basic Timber Framing: Hand Tool Edition

Course Overview

Learn the planning, layout, and joinery necessary to construct a traditional timber frame (post and beam) structure, such as North House’s blacksmith shop, bread oven shelter, fish house classroom, and other structures around campus. The course begins with the basic mortise and tenon joint, and then expands on these techniques to cover through-tenons, shouldered mortises, and scarf-joinery. In both classroom sessions and hands-on experiences, you will explore the use of traditional tools and techniques of timber framing. This session of Basic Timber Framing will focus exclusively on the use of hand tools in construction, a centuries-old practice that is easy on the ears, the lungs, and the pocket book, not to mention makes for great conversation as we work. We will also discuss foundations, enclosing the frame, wiring and plumbing issues, and basic frame and joinery design. The course culminates with the raising of a full-sized timber frame completed by the group on the final day of class.

Dates

Cancelled
Wed, May 13th, 2020  –  Sun, May 17th, 2020

This course has been cancelled to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19. We offer our deepest apologies. We truly believe in the power of craft to build community, and we know that community is needed more than ever in times like these. However, the need to stay healthy and protect our friends and neighbors is the most critical priority.

If you were registered for this class, you should have received an email regarding your refund options. If not, please call us at 218-387-9762 or email us at info@northhouse.org.

Click here for additional information.

We truly hope to see you in another class at North House soon!

Course Details

Length: 5 Days
Skill Levels: Beginner to Advanced
Hours: 9am-5pm
Intergenerational age: N/A
Tuition: $475.00
Materials fee: $25.00

Required

You will need the following tools for this class:

  • 1 1/2 inch chisel: you will need a chisel with at least a 5” blade. The Stanley "Contractor Grade" and Buck Brothers are less expensive options. Woodcraft and Sorby make good framing chisels, but make sure they measure exactly 1 1/2".  The Barr chisel is an excellent tool and will be available at the North House School Store.  
  • Mallet: with a  wood handled chisel you will want a 20 to 40 oz. mallet with wood, plastic or rawhide head. (Also available @ North House School Store)
  • Ear and eye protection.

Optional Tools

Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel appropriate for this course.

More Information

Once registered, students will receive a confirmation email with further class information. Please call us if you haven't received it within 24 hours.

Latest Update: View recent changes →

Meet the Instructor

North House Folk School photo of instructor, Peter Henrikson
Peter Henrikson
Grand Marais, MN

Meet the Instructor

North House Folk School photo of instructor, Gerald David
Gerald David
Duluth, MN

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Basic Timber Framing: Hand Tool Edition - 5/13/2020