Thoreau’s Cabin Series, Part 2: Hand Tool Timber Framing
6 Days: Monday - Saturday, October 13th - 18th, 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 into the world of traditional craftsmanship in Thoreau’s Cabin Series, Part 2: Hand Tool Timber Framing. In this immersive 6-day course, students will build a full-scale replica of Henry David Thoreau’s famous cabin at Walden Pond, gaining firsthand experience in the fundamentals of timber framing—all using hand tools.
This course focuses on working with hewn timber and small-diameter logs (poles), following historical construction techniques. You’ll explore both the practical skills of timber framing and the philosophical approach of working by hand, engaging in open discussions on the ethics and significance of traditional craftsmanship.
Throughout the week, you’ll master essential layout, cutting, and joinery techniques, and on the final day, the class will culminate in the hand-raising of the cabin frame, celebrating the completion of your work.
All tools and wood are provided, but students are welcome to bring their own hand tools.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the fundamentals of timber frame construction, including traditional layout and joinery methods.
Gain hands-on experience working with hewn timber and small-diameter logs.
Learn basic timber hewing techniques using axes and adzes.
Develop hand tool skills, including tool selection, sharpening, and usage in a timber framing context.
Participate in the timber frame hand-raising of Thoreau’s Cabin on the final day.
By the end of this course, you’ll have gained a strong foundation in traditional timber framing techniques, deepened your appreciation for working by hand, and contributed to the creation of a fully framed historic replica.
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.