Thoreau’s Cabin Series, Part 1: The Art & Craft of Axes
6 Days: Monday - Saturday, October 6th - 11th, 2025, 8 AM - 5 PM
Tuition: $1,250.00
Ages: 16 & Up
Instructor: Ethan Higgins of Roof Jumper Timber Frames
Instructional Delivery Method(s): In person
Prerequisites: None
Program Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Program Description:
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the art and craft of axe work in this 6-day immersive course. The Thoreau’s Cabin Series, Part 1: The Art & Craft of Axes is designed for anyone interested in learning the history, anatomy, and practical use of one of the most essential tools in woodworking and timber processing. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodsman, this hands-on course will equip you with the skills to handle an axe with confidence and precision.
The course begins with a classroom session exploring the history, patterns, and functions of different axe types, giving you an understanding of their utility and historical significance. You’ll then craft your own custom axe handle and learn how to hang (fit) an axe head, ensuring a properly balanced tool.
Once equipped with your axe, the real work begins. Over the next several days, you’ll develop key splitting, chopping, timber felling, and log bucking techniques. You’ll also hew round logs into square timbers using a broad axe, a foundational skill in traditional timber framing and log construction.
By the end of this course, the axe will feel like a natural extension of your hands, giving you the confidence to tackle a wide range of traditional woodworking and forestry tasks.
All tools and wood are provided, but students may bring their own axes. If you have an old axe that needs re-hanging, bring it along for a hands-on restoration experience!
Learning Objectives:
Understand the history and evolution of the axe, including various patterns and their specific uses.
Learn what to look for when selecting an axe, including balance, weight, and edge geometry.
Make an axe handle and properly hang an axe head to optimize control and performance.
Develop safe and efficient axe-swinging techniques for cutting, splitting, and chopping.
Master timber felling using only an axe, with a focus on precision and technique.
Gain hands-on experience hewing round logs into square timbers with a broad axe.
By the end of this 6-day experience, you’ll not only have a deep appreciation for the axe as a woodworking tool, but you’ll also walk away with the practical skills to use it effectively for a lifetime.
Attendance Requirements: Students must attend all days
Location: Sam Beauford Woodshop, 1375 N. Main St, Building 41, Adrian, Michigan 49221
Class Size: Maximum 10 students
Click Here to view our Refund, Cancellation, and Complaint Resolution Policies
If you have any questions about this class, please contact the Administrative Office at (517) 759-3070 or email sambeaufordwoodshop@gmail.com.
This course is offered through partnership with Roof Jumper Timber Frames.
AIA Advance Learner Preparation: None
AIA Approved Learning Units & Type: TBD
AIA CES Program Approval Expiration Date: TBD
Official AIA CES Provider Statement: Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 10009739. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3). This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.