Traditional dovetail log homes, also known as American heritage and Appalachian log homes in the United States, began to emerge in the 1700s as a sturdy abode of our ancestors. The walls were traditionally made of logs hand hewn into square timbers (sizes varied based upon logs available) and joined at the corners with a weather-resistant half-dovetail notch. This authentic design allows the weight of the building to pull the timbers tightly together for stout, tight joinery. The spaces between the timbers were historically filled with an array of clay, mortar, moss or oakum. Today's construction includes varied thicknesses of timbers, foam backing rod for filler, and flexible latex chinking. The rustic dovetail joinery and white pine timbers reflects the quality construction of those bygone days. This Build Your Own option allows you and your friends/family the option to build your own 8' x 8' white pine dovetail sauna or writer's cabin, including a 4' porch OR the northwoods retreat cabin, a 10'x16' dovetail cabin. Tuition covers instruction, 4"x8" white pine timbers, and use of specialized dovetail framing tools. The shelter may be built by individual students, however, working with multiple partners (up to 6) on the project is welcome and encouraged. From a design perspective note that the spacing between the timbers is approximately 1 inch and that the dimensions noted are for the building's exterior. A larger cabin (16x16) may be possible; please call to inquire. ** Sauna or Writer's Cabin: 8' x 8' (with a 4' porch) - $4,400: 4 days ** Northwoods Retreat Cabin: 10' x 16' - $7,250: 6 days

You will need the following tools for this class:

All required tools and equipment are available.

3 inch “scarf” slick. The Barr slick is an excellent tool for cutting dovetails and is available at the North House School Store for $155-$165 - visit www.northhouse.org