
Spring 2023 Timber Frame Workshop

Are you interested in the historic trade of timber-framing?
THIS WORKSHOP IS NOW FULL.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE PLACED ON THE WAITING LIST, PLEASE FILL OUT AND EMAIL A REGISTRATION FORM BELOW .
In the spring of 2023, Chinkapin Craftstead will host a two-week workshop for anyone interested in learning this craft. The workshop will be led by Vermont-based timber-framers Ariel Schecter, Dawn Robin and Jackson Mills.
We will create a multi-use timber-frame building that will function as a community space, performance stage and art gallery. We will use saws, chisels, and hand drills to cut traditional joinery into large timber posts and beams.
We will conclude the workshop with a community-powered hand-raising, assembling and erecting the timber frame building.
The workshop will be held at Chinkapin Craftstead near Woodbury, TN. The Craftstead is a 280-acre land project surrounded by beautiful woods, abundant springs and friendly neighbors.
This workshop will be hands-on and participatory. Food is included in the cost of the workshop. Attendees will camp on the land (unless they wish to make other arrangements.) We are on the grid and our amenities are basic but comfortable. (You will need to provide your own camping gear.)
This workshop is open to everyone who is interested in the craft of timber-framing regardless of experience. We especially encourage women, people of color, immigrants, trans people, and queer people to attend. We value the participation of people with diverse life experiences, and seek age and gender diversity.


Important Information
Chinkapin Craftstead 2023 Timber Frame Workshop
Dates: May 20 - June 3, 2023
We recommend attending the workshop for the full two weeks, but we understand that not everyone can do that. We are committed to making this workshop as accessible as possible. Contact us for information about participating for only part of the time.
Cost: Running this workshop takes a lot of time and costs a lot of money. The program includes camping and food, instruction and varied activities. Yet we do not wish to ration space solely on the basis of ability to pay. We ask for a sliding scale fee of $420 to $1,200 for the 2-week workshop.
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Please pay as much as you can afford. Registration payments can be made directly through Venmo at the handle @chinkapincrafts or by check. We are open to partial barter or exchange.
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Because of the hands-on nature of this workshop, it is limited to 20 participants. Early registration is strongly encouraged.
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We can get people to and from the Nashville airport or bus station (60 miles: $40 each way).
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Not included in the fee is a short list of basic tools that each attendee will need to have. These tools are safety glasses, tape measure, framing square, and a hand saw. Optional items include a chisel and mallet.
To register for this workshop, please review and download the registration form below and follow the instructions included:
For further inquiries, please send an email to chinkapincrafts@gmail.com