Crafting Timeless Structures: Stereotomy Timber Framing

Timber framing (Post and Beam), a time-tested method spanning continents and millennia, is celebrated in this immersive workshop led by Compagnon carpenter Patrick Moore. Participants will delve into the rich tradition of timber framing, learning the art of crafting sturdy structures using modern joinery techniques with a review of wood-to-wood joints. From layout and joinery to structural principles and design considerations, this course offers a comprehensive overview of timber framing fundamentals. The project is a 14’ X 12’ gazebo with irregular pitched roofs and features a main structural truss down the middle. The workshop is for all levels of experience, the only prerequisite is proficiency in both hand and power tools. An innovative aspect of this workshop is the utilization of stereotomy, allowing students to lay out all the timbers and joinery by easily and simply drawing the structure to full size on the floor, eliminating the need for complex calculations. This approach simplifies the design process, empowering participants to grasp the intricacies of timber framing without relying on advanced mathematics. By the end of the workshop, students will have not only acquired the skills to construct timber-framed structures but also developed the ability to plan and design their own projects. With a focus on simplicity and intuitive design processes, this course empowers participants to tackle future timber-framed endeavors with success.

Skills and Techniques:

• Overview of timber framing design processes and terminology
• Traditional joinery techniques and modern alternatives
• Utilization of stereotomy for full-size layout drawings
• Essential tools and equipment for timber framing
• Practical, hands-on experience in crafting and erecting timber frames
• Structural and aesthetic considerations for design
• Sustainability considerations in timber framing
• Brief historical overview of timber framing through the millennia

Materials Fee: None

Special Tools or Equipment:
Students enrolled in the course must bring the following tools:

• 1½” timber framing chisel Recommended – Barr Framing Chisel
• Hand Saw Recommended – Stanley 26” Sharptooth Saw
• 25′ Tape Measure Recommended – Stanley FatMax
• Carpenter’s Pencil
• Safety glasses, safety boots, and hearing protection
• Framing Square Recommended – Carpenter’s Stainless-Steel Square
• Mallet Recommended – Wood is Good
• Stanley #4 Plane
• 4′ Level
• Olfa Knife Recommended – Olfa Heavy Duty Cutter
• Chalk Line Recommended – Tajima Chalk-Rite Chalk Line Reel
• Fine Black Marker Recommended – Fine Tip Sharpie

Students may also find the following optional tools useful:

• Sliding T-bevel Recommended – Shinwa Sliding T-Bevel
• Combination Square Recommended – 12” Starrett® Cast-Iron Combination Squares

Workshop Policies: Please be sure to read our 2025 policies before you register for a workshop which can be found here Workshop Policies