Traditional Timber Frame Joinery Course - Build a Tiny Home

Timber frame construction is one of the oldest forms of building that remains in use today. The art of timber framing dates back to some of man’s first primitive structures; using large greenwood timbers slotted together to form stunning, natural structures without the need for nails. This course gives you a hands on approach to learning this craft.

Over a week’s tuition you will gain a broad understanding of calculating, crafting and building a timber frame structure. You will practice woodworking techniques with hand tools and power tools and, as part of a close-knit team, you will produce a beautiful 10m² traditional timber frame.

Learn about the tools you need; how to use them safely and how to look after them, including sharpening techniques. You will also learn about choosing the right timber, understanding individual logs and how milled timber moves during seasoning.

Through understanding the process and gaining the practical skills to construct a range of different joints, you’ll be prepared to design and build your own structures, limited only by your imagination! Timber framing is a skill that you can continue to grow in your own time, it’s is a real investment in your personal and professional development.

Beginners and Advanced Carpentry
Even though no experience is necessary to do this course, if you pick up the techniques quickly or already have competent carpentry skills, there is plenty of opportunity to work on more complex joints on the build.

After a week of hands-on learning, we will erect the completed frame and see the results of our collective hard work: an exquisite, handcrafted 10m² tiny house frame that you can replicate at home or adapt to suit your own needs – a stunning, tiny space that will stand the test of time.

Spaces are limited to 8 people per course to ensure each person gets the attention needed to learn the craft. The course runs from 2pm Sunday through to 12pm Saturday.

Community
Our intimate student groups of like-minded people very quickly create a feeling of whanaū family/tribe. We walk with each other through the process, laugh together and support each other’s learning.

There are many opportunities for us to get to know each other, including a communal dinner on Sunday evening before the hands on part of the course starts on Monday morning. We also host a celebratory team meal on the Friday evening after erecting the completed timber frame, honouring the beautiful structure we’ve created that will stand for over 100 years.