40
Fox Maple School of Traditional Building Timber Framing Natural Building Systems Traditional Design

site intro booklet

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of

Traditional Building

Timber Framing

Natural Building Systems

Traditional Design

Page 2: site intro booklet

It would be part of my scheme ofphysical education that every

youth in the state should learn todo something finely and

thoroughly with his hand, so as tolet him know what touch

meant…Let him once learn to takea straight shaving off a plank, or

draw a fine curve without faltering, or lay a brick up level

in its mortar; and he has learneda multitude of other matters…

—John Ruskin

Page 3: site intro booklet

Contents

Introduction to the School Site ..................................... 4History & Mission ........................................................... 5The Office Headquarters................................................ 8The Library ................................................................... 12The Dining Hall .............................................................16The Workshop .............................................................. 18The Site Plan................................................................. 21

Timber Framing Courses .............................................. 22A Workshop Primer .......................................................23So You Want to be a Timber Framer? ..........................23What to bring & What to Expect ................................. 23

Timber Framing Tools ................................................... 25A Beginner’s Tool Box ................................................. 25Additional Supplies .......................................................28Tool Check List ............................................................. 28Tool Suppliers................................................................28

Timber Framing Workshop Overview ..................... 29Design Seminars ........................................................... 29Introductory Timber Framing ...................................... 30Advanced Timber Framing .......................................... 31

Natural Building Workshops ...................................... 32Using Traditional Models forour Modern Needs ....................................................... 32Clay Building Systems .................................................. 34Thatching ...................................................................... 36Whole System Building .................................................36

Hosting a Traveling Workshop .................................. 37

Letters from past Participants .................................... 39

Lodging & Accommodations ...................................... 40Directions to Fox Maple .............................................. 40

New School Site, pg. 4

Timber Framing, pg. 22

Tools, pg. 25

Workshops, pg. 29

Natural Building, pg. 32

Traveling Workshops, pg. 37

Page 4: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

4

In March of 1996, we broke ground on our 40 acre site in thefoothills of the White Mountains of western Maine, in what wouldbecome our new office headquarters and school campus. Aside fromproviding the space that we needed to conduct business and grow, itoffered us an opportunity to provide real world projects for ourstudents and apprentices, and at the same time, a chance to experi-ment with a variety of new and promising traditional building systems.

In the initial phase, our plan was to construct a new office building,a library/conference center, a dining hall and a workshop largeenough to conduct both summer and winter workshops. Fourstructures to provide the basic infrastructure of our new educationalfacility. In the process of designing the site and structures, we madean attempt to incorporate a variety of traditional systems that wouldutilize locally available and natural materials as much as possible. Withthese first four structures nearing completion, our waste piles haveconsisted of little more than timber and wood scraps, straw, reed andclay— these being the essential materials in the construction to date.

The building systems we have chosen incorporate both ancientmethods and progressive modern approaches based on traditionalsystems. Timber framing, straw bales, traditional wattle and daub,wood chip and clay, reed thatching and compressed wheat strawpanels are all incorporated. Our motivation for working with naturalmaterials—beyond that of creating comfortable and healthy workingenvironments—is geared toward understanding and developing sys-tems that may increase speed and efficiency in a straightforwardmanner. We are essentially testing the viability of each method with theoverriding goal of determining if they can be adapted to any buildingsite, by any builder, with consistent results—while providing reliable,practical and efficient results for modern dwellings. At the same time,we see it as an opportunity to train individuals interested in pursuingthese building methods for personal and professional reasons.

—Steve ChappellFounder & Director

Introduction to the School Site

Student dressingthatching on thelibrary.

Page 5: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

5

History & MissionApprenticeship

The Apprenticeship program at Fox Maple was established in thelate 1980s as a natural outgrowth of the biannual timber framingworkshops conducted by Fox Maple Post & Beam, in conjunction withJoiners’ Quarterly. The primary emphasis of these workshops was todevelop and instill within the participants a deeper sense of craftsman-ship, coupled with a comprehensive technical overview of thesystems, techniques and approach to crafting high quality timberframes using traditional methods of design and execution. Throughthe 1980s, many of our students went on to build their own homes,work for other timber framers and to start their own timber framingcompanies.

As the demand for timber framing increased, so also did thedemand for trained and qualified timber framers. To help serve thisneed, we developed a comprehensive two week course in whichstudents would be guided through the design and construction of bothintroductory and advanced framing projects. Those who wished topursue timber framing as apprentices were then connected withtimber framing shops, in various parts of the country, with whom theywould complete the training process under terms and conditionsnegotiated on a shop-by-shop basis. While this proved to be quitesuccessful in its simplicity, we always felt that a more comprehensiveprogram could and should be developed in which the apprenticescould go through a longer term training program—6 months to 1year—in which the process of constructing the completed home couldbe taught through hands-on involvement. The development of ourcampus facilities allows this to work much more efficiently.

Our current apprenticeship program allows from two to threepeople per year to carry out their apprenticeship at FMSTB. This isdependent upon our needs and apprentice openings. It is commonthat we will accept only one or two per year. Applications forapprenticeship are accepted only from individuals who have com-pleted our two week Intro and Advanced workshops. If openings arenot available, we then help to get the student set up as an apprenticein another shop. Since the number of applicants dramatically exceedsthe number of apprentices we can handle in a given year, this is themost likely scenario. This has been very successful over the years, withnearly100% placement of all students.

The Corn Hill School Site

The campus site is located on 40 acres of southeasterly slopingwooded land in the rural foothills of western Maine. To date, the fourstructures that make up the core campus complex are operational (ifnot fully completed). Each of the structures were built primarily bystudents and apprentices in structured workshops and incorporate a

Page 6: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

6

variety of traditional and indigenous building systems and ap-proaches. Natural, locally obtained materials were used as much aswas practicable.

Each building is intended to be a model for responsible, efficientand cost effective approaches to building in northern New England,and to some extent, are experimental in nature. Craftsmanship andquality is of primary importance in our building philosophy, and eachof these existing structures represent an attempt to combine quality,style and affordabilty in an environmentally sustainable way. Westrongly believe that if we build structures which are respected by theirinhabitants, then they will be maintained in such a way that they willlast for many generations to come. Longevity, after all, is an importantaspect of sustainability.

FMSTB Mission

The primary goal of the FMSTB and the Apprenticeshop is toprovide individuals seeking knowledge and experience in traditional,natural and sustainable building systems the opportunity to learn,firsthand, by working on real-world projects that exemplify thequalities, characteristics and practicality we believe to be appropriateand representative of the way of our building future.

While there are many new building concepts that seem to offerwonderful possibilities in solving some of the building issues we willbe facing in the new millennium, we believe that for any real stridesto be made, these unique and novel systems must first be designed,built and tested in a variety of building environments if they are toprove to be practical and efficient alternatives. Secondly, for a systemor technique to be integrated into the broader stream, there needs tobe a body of trained individuals capable of designing and directing theconstruction process in a professional manner. To provide thiscomprehensive training, we are in the process developing longer-termsessions geared for architectural and engineering students, profes-sional trades people and trade apprentices. These will offer bothclassroom and hands-on experience in all phases of the constructionprocess. It is our intent to develop working relationships withuniversities, colleges and trade schools in which we can providevaluable hands-on experience, from which, students will receivecourse credits.

Those with insight, vision and enthusiasm are invited to take part.

Page 7: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

7

“ I enjoyed the workshop so completely—theexperience is forever etched in my mind.Everything about it was exceptional—the chanceto work with such fine tools, under the guidanceof such fine individuals, the food—oh, whatwonderful, satisfying food—the atmosphere, thecomaraderie…it was wonderful.”

—Tom Holmes, Baraboo, WisconsinSpring 1983 Workshop

Page 8: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

8

The Office HeadquartersThe design goal in the con-

struction of our new office wasto provide an economic and ef-ficient model for a modest dwell-ing, based on a traditional de-sign, which utilized a naturalenclosure system. The 1,600square foot building combinestwo workshop frames—a twobent saltbox, and a three benthigh posted cape. The frameswere cut in workshops by stu-dents in the Fall 1994 & Spring1996 workshops. They wereraised as two freestanding frames,butted together with a straw panelsandwiched in between, and en-closed with compressed wheatstraw panels. This system is rep-resentative of how one could build one section to accommodate a later addition. Clay plaster covers a portionof the interior walls. Pine boards provide the balance of the construction material, aside from the steel roofingand concrete frost wall foundation.

Page 9: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

9

High Posted Cape / Isometric View

Bent Framing Plan

Page 10: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

10

Saltbox / Isometric ViewThe saltbox design above is one of our most common teaching

models. It contains a wide variety of joinery details, and can beincreased in size to accommodate the size of the group by adding anadditional bent for every five students.

The office frames wereenclosed with com-pressed wheat strawpanels, strapped with 2by 4s to frame door andwindow openings, thensheathed with horizontalpine siding.

Page 11: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

11

Bent Framing Plan

Framing Elevation

Page 12: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

12

The Library

The library incorporates a number of traditional and alternative buildingsystems. The frame, cut and raised in the June 1996 workshop, was designed toprovide both introductory and advanced framing details for course instruction, andis modeled after the Japanese Minka. This was followed up with a straw baleworkshop instructed by Athena and Bill Steen.

The foundation isa rubble trench, thewalls are straw bales.For lateral reinforc-ing, maple saplings,harvested from thesite, were lashed to-gether with hemptwine, inside and out.The roof is thatch.Clay plaster is usedon both the interiorand exterior walls.

Page 13: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

13

Library Plan / Isometric View

This workshop incorporated the full spectrum of building in a comprehensive 2 weekcourse. Students built the rubble trench foundation, the timber frame, the straw baleenclosure and a portion of the base coat of earth plaster on the interior walls.

Page 14: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

14

Framing Section

Preparing the frame for bales with maplesaplings for lateral support.

Bale installation nearing completion on day 10 of the workshop.Both frame and bales were completed in the two week workshop.

Page 15: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

15

Bent Framing Plan

Framing Elevation

Page 16: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

16

The Dining HallThe dining hall is de-

signed in the style of a me-dieval English cottage, andis intended to be the build-ing that experiments with avariety of clay/fiber enclo-sure systems. Wattle & daub,woodchip-light clay, straw-light clay and straw clayblocks will make up thewall enclosure. It will behalf-timbered, with a limeputty exterior plaster finish.The roof will be coveredwith compressed straw pan-els, applied over pineboards.

The design goal of the dining hall is to experiment with methods to efficiently producethe materials and application of both traditional methods, and some of the more recentinnovations in natural clay-based infill systems. These will be monitored to evaluate longterm results. The frame was cut and erected by students in the June 1997 workshop classand combined both introductory and advanced joinery systems.

Page 17: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

17

Dining Hall / Isometric View

Bent Framing Plan

Page 18: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

18

The Workshop frame was designed to provide the greatest amountof open space, with the least amount of timber and labor. To achievethis, king-post trusses, spanning 32 feet, were used. The rafters are 20feet, but all of the remaining timbers are 16 feet and under.

The frame was cut in the June 1995 workshop. The roof and wallsare covered with compressed wheat straw panels with local pinecovering the walls with steel roofing.

The Workshop

Shop at the end of thesummer of 1997.

Page 19: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

19

Workshop Frame / Isometric View

The king-post trusses of the shop span 32 feet. Com-pressed wheat straw panels cover the roof and walls.The frame was designed to maximize the use ofmaterials to provide the greatest space for the leastamount of timber and labor.

Page 20: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

20

Bent Framing Plan

Framing Elevation Plan

Page 21: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

21

The Site Plan

The FMSTB campus is situated on 40 acres on the Corn Hill Road,in West Brownfield, Maine. Five acres have been designated for thecampus dwellings and structures. The remaining 35 acres will remainin tree growth, managed to create a sustainable, long-term supply oftimber for future workshop projects. In addition to timber manage-ment, plans to cultivate a 6 acre meadow for farming, gardening andagricultural crops that can be used for both food, and constructionmaterials are underway.

The work that has taken place since the ground breaking in Aprilof 1996 has been exciting, if not miraculous, in its unfolding. There isstill much to do before the long-term goals are fully realized and thework complete. Perhaps it will never be completed, for at every turnthere appears another new and exciting building concept to explore.

Page 22: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

22

Timber Framing CoursesIn the spring of 1983, guided by little more than a burning desire

to expand the awareness of timber framing, we initiated our firsttimber framing workshop at our shop in Brownfield, Maine. It was asimple cape frame, small in size, based on the traditional design andjoinery of the early 19th century frames common to New England. Ourgoal at the time was to share the knowledge we had gained over theprevious ten years of building this type of frame to what we found tobe an eager student body. Though we entered this first workshop witha little fear and trepidation, we found it to be something much greaterthan we had ever imagined—for both student and teacher. To this day,the workshops have remained as rewarding as this first one.

Workshops bring togethersmall groups of people fromvarious backgrounds and expe-riences, bound only by enthusi-asm and a common goal to learntraditional building techniques.Through the process, they be-come united into a cohesiveworking unit, bound by com-mon experience. Each workshopproduces a complete frame, cutentirely by the students andraised on the final day of theworkshop. Celebration ensues.

The process unfolds step-by-step, in a structured and focusedmanner with the primary em-phasis on the systems, approachand techniques that will allowthe student to gain the knowl-

edge and confidence to tackle a framing project on their own.For the architect and engineer, the workshop is an opportunity to

work with the components of a joined frame, while applying thestructural and mechanical principles. For the builder it is an opportu-nity to expand their talents to include traditional timber frame joineryinto their repertoire. For the novice or aspiring owner-builder, it is achance to walk through the process of building; to develop practicalwoodworking skills, to communicate with others of like mind, and todevelop relationships with people who may help to make their ownbuilding plans a reality.

Above all, the timber framing experience is unique in allowing aperson to join others in a common task, while developing practicalhands-on skills. The process is perhaps the most important aspect ofthe workshop, but the frame raising provides immediate and tangibleproof of achievement, as well as cause for celebration.

“When I arrived, I wasn’t surewhat I was going to learn, butI have come away withexactly what I needed; theconfidence and knowledgewhich create the ability totackle large projects in wood.(ABSOLUTELY SUPER!!!)”—J.I.G. Grand Rapids, MI

Page 23: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

23

A Workshop PrimerWhat to bring & What to Expect

So You Want to be a Timber Framer?“What tools do I need to build a timber frame?” This is the most

common question asked by workshop students. My first response isusually, “A chisel and a mallet.” This may not be the whole truth, butI believe that tools should be purchased only after they’ve proven tobe absolutely essential to the work at hand. With a chisel and mallet,a brace & bit, and a hand saw, an experienced carpenter can buildanything—given the time. When learning a new trade, it’s best to startout with only the few essential tools of that trade. The first priority isto learn how to use these few tools really well; to execute your workaccurately and efficiently, and to understand the nature of the workbefore you go out and spend a bundle on a cache of tools that mayspend most of their time in the tool box. Tools can be an addiction,I will admit that, but owning a hoard of tools will not necessarily makea person a better craftsman. A craftsman, however, can expand thecapabilities of just about any tool he or she touches.

Timber framing is demanding work, both on the tools, and on thebody using them. More than any other type of housebuilding, itdemands a level of intimacy and dedication that tends to make peopleextend the limits of their abilities. When people extend their limits,tools will be asked to do the same. This is why it’s so important to buyprofessional quality tools. We have a ritual at the beginning of everyworkshop in which we check all of the tools before we begin. Theframing squares are checked for square, the tape measures checkedfor accuracy, the chisels are checked for trueness. Inevitably, abouthalf of the tools fail to pass the test and end up in the cull pile. In theworkshop you’ll have an opportunity to use a variety of tools, handand power. This will give you an insight into the full range of the toolsof the trade, and the experience to make wise tool purchases.

Did We really cut that timber 18 inches too short?

Page 24: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

24

“So…can I expect tolearn enough in theworkshop to actuallybuild my own timberframe home?” A toughquestion, perhaps, but Ionly need to look back toour past students to findthe answer.

Over the last fifteenyears roughly 30% of ourgraduates have gone on toactually build their owntimber frame, or havemade timber framing theirprofession. Many havestarted their own timberframing company. Essen-

tially, you can expect to receive as much from the experience in ameasure equal to what you’re willing to give. Our goal is to instillconfidence by organizing systems and techniques which can befollowed and applied to any number of framing situations. There is amystery to timber framing, but it does not lie in the physical ormechanical act of laying out and cutting joints.

Past woodworking or building experience has little to do with yourability to be a successful timber framer. In fact, it’s often those with nobuilding experience who excel at timber framing. If fine joinery is tobe the result, it’s imperative that the pressures of time and speed ofproduction be removed from the equation. Professional builders oftenhave a more difficult time adjusting to the slower pace required to dofine work than novices who have never been subjected to the wrathof an irate project foreman. Our approach is to first develop a visualimage of what it is we’re building. Once this mental image isdeveloped, we begin to unfold the frame, timber by timber, joint byjoint, in a systematic way so that each timber can visually be seen andplaced in the frame. Progress begins slowly and systematically, makingsure that the concept and approach is fully understood on anindividual and group basis. As the group congeals into cohesive teams,confidence rises and talents increase. With this, speed naturally picksup. It’s common for more work to be produced on the last work daybefore the raising, than in all the preceding days.

The mystery of timber framing? This is difficult to describe in words,but you’ll catch a glimmer of it as you stand back after the raising andbegin to realize what just happened.

Raising the Maine PublicBroadcasting House. Cut inthe Spring 1992 Workshopand donated to MPBN as afundraiser.

Page 25: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

25

Timber Framing ToolsThe following is a quick review of the tools you’ll need to bring to the

workshop. If you own a set of carpentry tools, you may already ownmany of these tools. Aside from the framing chisel, these are allcommon tools and available in most neighborhood hardware stores.Purchased new, the tools making up the basic tools set should costunder $150. The primary emphasis in the workshop is on working withhand tools, however, power tools are used as well.

A Beginner’s Tool Box

Framing Square - Framing squares were devel-oped by timber framers in the middle ages andremain today as one of the most useful layout toolsavailable to a carpenter. To the timber framer, it’s anessential tool of the trade. As with many tools, thebest framing squares are the most expensive, and itis absolutely imperative that the square is square.All squares should be checked off the rack beforepurchasing by measuring the diagonal from 15” to20”. This should read exactly 25”. Approximately30% of all new squares on the rack will be out ofsquare. The aluminum, Stanley Professional modelis the best American made square available. It alsocomes with an extremely informative booklet whichclearly explains how to use it. This booklet in itselfis almost worth the $30 to $40 price tag of thesquare. A line of stainless steel Japanese squares arealso available in many tool catalogs. These will lastlonger than aluminum squares, take a little moreabuse, and they are less flexible, which means theywon’t tend to bend when scoring layout lines. LeeValley Tools sells these for $35-$45, with a guaran-tee that they’re square.

Framing chisels, 1-1/2 & 2” —If any tool issynonymous with timber framing, it’s the framing chisel. Framingchisels come in two basic types; tang chisels and socket chisels. Fortimber work, the socket version is much preferred because it can takeconsiderably more abuse, and there is less shock and vibrationtransferred to the hand from repeated mallet blows. Broken handlescan also be replaced quickly with just about any piece of hardwoodlaying around. A tang chisel on the other hand will transfer morevibration to your hand which creates more fatigue. Replacing handlesalso proves to be a little more difficult—and their handles are alwaysbreaking.

A chisel should be judged by the quality of its steel, its weight,balance, and most importantly, its feel. The feel of a chisel may seem

A good framing chiselcan be used to chopdeep mortises with amallet, and as a slick topare thin shavings. Thechisel above is a 2”Barr, the mallet a 32 oz.lignum vitae carversmallet.

Page 26: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

26

a somewhat nebulous term, but it can be quicklyunderstood by chopping a few joints with one thathas it, and then chopping a few joints with one thatdoesn’t. Most mortises are either 1-1/2 or 2 incheswide, therefore, one chisel of each size is ideal.

Used chisels can be found in antique stores andyard sales, but you must know what you’re lookingfor. Chisels with a thin cross section are usually asign of a finer grade steel, and most often worthbuying. Chisels with a heavier cross section areusually older, and made by laminating high carbonsteel between softer low carbon steel. If the hard-ened steel can clearly be distinguished along theedge of the blade, it is most likely a sign that thehardened steel is of high quality. Most of these havea slight sweep to their back, which is a designelement, and not necessarily a sign of abuse. Anychisels stamped with the names Swan, Buck or

Witherby should be bought without a second thought. If a chisel only hasthe imprint “cast steel”, it was most likely made by an individual craftsmanprior to 1870. These vary dramatically in quality, depending on themetallurgy skills of the craftsman. Some of these early cast steel chiselsare the best chisels ever made.

The selection of new chisels on the market is limited as well. The bestchisels I’ve found, by far, are made by Barr Quarton, of Barr SpecialtyTools, in McCall, Idaho. Barr, who is an apprenticed Japanese swordmaker, hand forges a line of socket timber framing and log building toolsthat really have no equal in any mass produced line. I’d recommend his

tools as a first choice to any serious timber framer, orwoodworker.

Henry Taylor (a corporation), of Sheffield, En-gland, also makes a line of socket framing chiselswhich can be purchased through Woodcraft supplyunder the Woodcraft name. These look great, how-ever the quality varies as they are made of a lowergrade steel which is over-hardened to compensate.Subsequently, they can be difficult to sharpen and tomaintain a good edge.

For tang chisels, Sorby, also of Sheffield, makes agreat line of quality tools, including a set of tangframing chisels. While the tang is not preferred, thequality of the steel in the Sorby chisels is superb.Coupled with the feel that they’ve managed tocapture, they are the best alternative if a qualitysocket chisel cannot be found.

Framing Mallet, 32 to 48 ounce - My preferencein a framing mallet is a one piece, turned hornbeam,

Mortises will be drilled and chopped will achisel and mallet prior to using mortisingmachines. Note the mallet design above.This is our preferred style as described.

Page 27: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

27

16 to 18 inches long, with a head about 3 to 3-1/2inches in diameter. These, of course, you have to turnyourself. Beech, hickory, and rock (hard) maple alsomake great mallets. A line of lignum vitae mallets,marketed as carvers mallets, are available throughmost mail order catalogs. If you don’t have the wood,or the lathe, these are your best bet. Order theheaviest version (approx. 32 ounces). Dead blowhammers can also be used, however they producemore fatigue, create more heat through friction, andhave less feel than a solid wooden mallet. Whenpounding a chisel with a mallet, you should be ableto feel the edge of the chisel cutting the wood. I findanything other than a turned wooden mallet (with apounding face parallel to the grain of the wood)creates too much shock and vibration, and this feel islost.

Combination Squares—These are used primarily for gauging thedepth of mortises, length of tenons and laying out the end of tenonsand repetitive layouts, such as dovetails. As such, it’s not essential thatthey be absolutely true, however, as with all tools, one should buy thebest quality available if possible. It’s useful to have two combo squareswhich can be set to different depths for multiple layout.

Hand Saws—For timber work, both crosscut and rip saws arerequired. The Japanese Ryoba saws are a good choice because theyhave both rip and crosscut teeth. Another great all-around saw is theStanley Shark saw. These have a tooth pattern similar to Japanesesaws, but they cut on the push stroke. Essentially a crosscut saw, theyalso make rip cuts reasonably well. They can be found in mostneighborhood hardware stores for under $20. Disston and Sandvikalso make fine saws for professionals at a cost range from $25-$55.

Planes—For smoothing and flattening the faces of timbers in theimmediate area around joinery prior to layout, cleaning up tenons, andremoving the bumps and ridges from the edges of timbers, a blockplane is one of the handiest tools. The standard #9 1/2 is good forgeneral work, and the #60 1/2 low angle version is great for planingend grain. If only one is to be purchased, make it the low angle #601/2. Stanley still makes one of the best block planes on the market.Stick with Stanley’s Professional line of planes and you can’t go wrong.The top-of-the-line Stanley’s go for about $45. In addition to the blockplane, a rabbet plane is also a handy tool for shaving tight up to theshoulders of tenons.

Protractor & Bevel Square—If you are taking an advancedworkshop, a protractor (or compass) square is essential. The rotatingprotractor head is necessary for gauging compound angles for layoutand checking angles after cutting. Bevel squares are an inexpensivealternative to a protractor square and should be part of every

Chain mortisersprovide an efficientway to remove lotsof material, but areonly used inworkshops onlyafter the student haslearned the tradi-tional drill andchop method.

Page 28: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

28

woodworkers tool box. Woodcraft Supply and Lee Valley both carry two orthree models of Protractor and Bevel squares at reasonable prices.

Scientific Calculator—For determining compound roof angles, a calcu-lator with Trig functions is required. Sharp, Texas Instruments, Casio andRadio Shack all make inexpensive models for under $15. Construction Mastercalculators, manufactured by Calculated Industries, are useful only if they haveTrig Functions (Construction Master III model). If you own another versionof these calculators, please bring a regular scientific calculator as well.

Additional SuppliesIn addition to the tools listed above, all participants should bring the

following: 25’ tape measure, carpenters pencils, blue and red builderscrayons, razor knife (common retractable blade utility knife), tool pouch, notepaper and a clipboard.

Safety equipment

In addition to tools, appropriate clothing and safety equipment is required.Ear protection and safety goggles of good quality is essential. Tools are sharp,and timbers are heavy, so rugged clothing, sturdy boots (steel toed isrecommended, however workboots are sufficient) and work gloves arerecommended.

The tools listed above are only the basics that you’ll need to bring. You canbring additional tools if you have them. If you have a favorite circular saw, 1/2” drill, or any other power tools you feel comfortable working with, by allmeans, bring them along too. All tools will be inspected prior to the workshop.Only safe and properly operating tools will be allowed to be used in theworkshop.

Tool Check List• 2” Framing chisel (1-1/2” optional)• Framing Mallett• Framing Square, Combination Square & Bevel Square• Scoring knife, 25’ tape measure• Saftey goggles, ear protection• Carpenters pencils, red & blue builders crayons, clipboard• Scientific calculator (trig functions required)

Tool SuppliersWoodcraft Supply, Parkersburg, WV. 1-800-542-9115Planes, squares, mallets, marking and layout tools.Lee Valley Tools, Ogdensburg, NY. 1-800-871-8158Planes, squares, mallets, marking and layout tools.Japan Woodworker, Alameda, CA. 1-800-537-7820Planes, squares, mallets, marking and layout tools.Barr Specialty Tools, McCall, Idaho. 1-800-235-4452Quality hand forged framing chisels and edge tools.

Page 29: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

29

Design SeminarsOne day design seminars precede all of our multi-day

Introductory workshops held at the school in Maine. Designseminars offer a great opportunity to gain a workingunderstanding of all aspects of building a timber framehouse, from basic design and joinery, to the completion ofthe home. With the help of slides, chalkboard and CADdrawings, we’ll walk through all of the steps of building atimber frame home, and along the way, unravel the mythsand solve many mysteries.

The design seminar explores the history and development of timber framing in additionto addressing problems which are likely to confront a contractor unfamiliar with contempo-rary timber framing. From foundation through completion, our focus is on assisting aspiringowner-builders in solving their own design problems, and allowing experienced builders toexpand their expertise.Historical overview

The process begins with an overview of the history of traditional timber framing fromEurope to America. A discussion on the evolution of timber framing systems, from early post& lintel structures to the medieval cottage will be covered.Bent framing

This segment covers the different bent designs and systems. The makeup of a bent,terminology, function of the principal members and the basic engineering principles of aproperly designed bent. This will include a discussion on the bent and bay system to createfunctional and efficient living areas.Joinery

Developing a basic vocabulary of joinery details is the first order of business. Commondetails, their variations, design criteria, tension and compression joinery, structural andengineering considerations, and rule-of-thumb guidelines will all be covered.Floor systems

This segment covers the design and requirements of floor systems. Joist and summer beamplacement, aesthetic and balance of layout, planning for plumbing and mechanical systems,first floor framing—true timber frame, principal sill and girts, and conventional framing toaccommodate the frame.Foundations

The structural considerations and design criteria for a number of foundation systemssuitable for timber framing is covered in this session: poured concrete, concrete block,concrete piers and rubble trenches will be covered. The focus will be on specific requirementsunique to timber framing.Enclosure systems

An overview of a variety of enclosure options will be discussed. Foam core stress skinpanels, installation techniques, wiring, cost to R-Factor ratio, and types available will becovered. In addition, a number of alternatives including site-built panels, stud in-fill,compressed straw panels and traditional straw/woodchip clay infill systems will be covered.Mechanical systems

Choosing and integrating mechanical systems in a timber frame requires careful consid-eration in the design and planning stage. Design considerations and helpful tips will bediscussed in this segment.

Timber Framing Workshop Overview

Page 30: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

30

Introductory Timber FramingThe best way to learn how to build a

timber frame is to do it. In hands-onworkshops, we do just that. The primaryfocus is on appropriate joinery design andlayout, with particular attention paid toperfect execution. Each joint will be sys-tematically laid out and cut by the students,allowing the opportunity to gain firsthand

experience of joinery design, and the feel of cutting a timber frame inthe traditional manner.

The workshop frame is designed specifically for instruction,combining a broad variety of joinery details in hopes of expanding thestudents vocabulary of joinery details. Close attention is paid to settingup systems and approaches that will result in perfect joinery, everytime.

The process begins by reviewing the frame plan, identifying eachmember, and then creating a visual image that must be shared byeveryone in the class. Teams are created—one for each bent, and thesetup of the timbers on cribbing begins. This initiates the timbersurveying process. The timbers are surveyed for visual and mechanicalproperties, grade and physical defects. A thorough discussion of thephysical and mechanical properties of wood are discussed in thisprocess. Preliminary labeling for placement in the frame is made.

Layout of joinery and cutting usually begin on the second day. Theprocess begins slowly to assure that everyone understands each step

prior to moving ontothe next. As the firstfew joints are com-pleted, confidence andtechnique is gained andmomentum builds. Thismomentum culminatesin the raising of theframe on the final day.

What began as afractured group of in-dividuals has becomea cohesive work force,unified and directed to-ward the final goal ofraising and dedicatingthe frame. Celebrationensues with just cause.

Frame raising, June 1998workshop at FMSTB.

Page 31: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

31

Advanced Timber FramingFor those who have some basic timber frame

experience, our advanced workshop is the place tohone your joinery skills and expand your reper-toire to include compound hip & valley roofframing. As with our introductory course, we payspecial attention to creating systems and tech-niques which may be applied to any framingsituation, with the same results every time. Perfec-tion!

Compound roof framing is nothing more than a combination ofsimple right triangles. By first creating a visual image, then translatingthis mental image to paper using simple sketches, each triangle can beisolated, allowing the builder to determine its physical dimensions andangles through trigonometry. This approach allows even the mostcomplex roof frames to be understood.

In the hands-on workshops we apply systems and theory to theconstruction of a hip & valley roof frame designed specifically forinstruction.

Valley foot to princi-pal rafter detail.

The theory, mechanics and mathematics of compound roof framing is covered through the system-atic unfolding of the frame plan. This begins with the footprint and elevation, which provides theinitial known elements. With this information, all other angles and intersecting planes can bedetermined through trigonometry by isolating each right triangle.

Page 32: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

32

Natural Building WorkshopsUsing Traditional Models for our Modern Needs

The building workshops at FMSTB have a primary focus on thejoinery, design and construction of traditional timber framed homesbuilt in New England from the mid 17th to the mid 19th centuries. Thecommon house and barn frames built in this period were the result ofhundreds of years of European experience and traditions, adapted tothe resources, economy and climate of the New World.

Early settlers quickly adapted to the environment and its resources.The vernacular dwellings in Europe used timber as a structuralframework and infilled the walls with wattle & daub, a mixture of strawand clay worked into a wickerwork of oak and willow. The roofs werecovered with stone or thatch. The earliest settlers brought thesetraditions with them. The use of wattle & daub and thatch was commonin the Massachusetts Bay area into the latter part of the 1600s. As thesettlements grew, industry and sawmills soon followed. The plentifulsupply of timber provided new options— wood sheathing and siding,split shake and sawn shingle roofs. Wattle & daub and thatch soondisappeared.

Page 33: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

33

Our resource supply is once again changing, and oursensitivities to the ecological impact we have on ourenvironment has become an issue of great importance.By studying the building traditions of the past, we mayfind solutions to our building needs of the future.Traditional building, by its nature—using only thematerials that come directly from the building site, or inclose proximity—is by all definitions natural building.

In an attempt to develop practical and professionalways to integrate traditional whole house systems intoour modern building environment, experimentation isongoing at FMSTB. Straw, clay, stone and timber havebeen the common building materials for ages. Thenatural building workshops at FMSTB begin with tradi-tional methods, but go beyond to explore new ways touse these materials that will fulfill the requirements ofour modern needs. Strawbale, woodchip and clay,natural earth plasters and thatch workshops are de-signed to include the best of the old-world techniques,with the latest in engineering and manufacturing pro-cesses to provide viable natural alternatives. The timberframe provides the core structural element, therebyreducing the structural requirements of these systems, making thempractical as building alternatives that will meet the requirements of ourmodern building codes and lifestyle needs.

Frank Andresen, clay builder from Dusseldorf, Germany, demonstrates thetraditional method of preparing straw light clay. Clay slip, left, is pouredonto straw and then mixed with a pitch fork. The ratio of clay slip to strawwill dictate insulation qualities and application requirements.

Stacking andlashing bales on

the Library in theStrawbale work-

shop instructed byAtheena and Bill

Steen, summer1996.

Page 34: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

34

Wattle & DaubMixtures of straw and clay have been used to

enclose timber frames for a millennia or more.One of the more common methods is known aswattle & daub. In this system, a dense mixtureof straw and clay (daub) is worked into awickerwork (wattle) made up of oak staveswedged into grooves in the timbers. Staves arespaced approx. 16 inches apart and usually nomore than 3 feet long. Split willow saplings arethen woven through the staves to create a tight,solid mesh. Willow was traditionally used be-cause it is flexible and easy to weave. Maple,hazel and ash saplings may also be used, and thestaves can be made from most hardwoods. Thefinished wall thickness can range from 4 to 8inches.

This system is fun, easy to accomplish, pro-vides a solid wall surface, and has a long andwell proven history of success. However, tocreate a solid wall a dense mixture of clay slip

to straw is required. This reduces its insulating qualities, making it lesssuitable to cold northern climates. It is ideal for interior partitions, andcan be used as the interior form for a straw light clay or woodchip lightclay infill.

Straw Light ClayA more recent adaptation developed in Germany in the 1970s, straw

light clay provides the same benefits as wattle & daub, uses the samematerials, but has increased resistance to thermal conductivity. In this

system, clay slip is mixed with thestraw to lightly coat the strawfiber. After allowing 24 hours tocure, the mixture is then lightlypacked into slip-forms or a cagemade up of reed matting or woodlaths. The more lightly it is packed,the higher the insulating qualities.Walls are commonly made 12thick, but can range from 8 to 16inches. However, the thicker thewall, the longer the drying time,and it must be protected fromfreezing until it is fully dried. A 12inch wall will take from 6 to 10weeks to fully dry.

Insulation values of up to R-24

Clay Building Systems

Clay plasterapplied over strawbale walls in theLibrary at FMSTB.

Woodchip lightclay sample panelwith clay plasterbase and finishcoats.

Page 35: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

35

in a twelve inch wall can be achieved, however it is misleading toapply standard R-values to this, or most other clay/fiber systems. Toachieve a suitable comfort level 12 inches is appropriate fornorthern climates.

This system can also be used to make blocks which can be laidup as bricks or adobe. This is advantageous if the construction isto be carried out in the winter months. In this case, the blocks canbe produced in the summer months, or in controlled conditions.

Woodchip Light ClayWoodchip light clay is produced and installed in the same

manner as straw light clay, only replacing woodchips for straw. Ithas advantages over straw light clay in that it is: 1) faster to produce(requiring no curing time); 2) it can be mixed in a cement mixer(requiring little or no hand work); 3) it can be easily poured intothe wall forms or cage, and; 4) it does not require the carefultamping to achieve the correct density. Simply pour and spreadlightly to fill all of the voids. The mixture compresses to theappropriate density under its own weight.

As with straw light clay, the mixture can be formed into blocks andlaid up in a clay mortar as with bricks or adobe.

CobCob is a traditional clay/fiber based building system that has been in

use for thousands of years. Cob achieved widespread use in Englandfrom the 13th through the 19th centuries. The term ‘cob’comes from the Old English root which means “a lump”.This suitably describes the material as it is often made byforming a mixture of clay based soil and straw intorounded lumps (the size of a large loaf of bread). Theselumps were then laid up into free standing structuralwalls, and occasionally used as an infill for timber frames.Structural in nature, cob walls can support a joined timberframed roof system.

Clay PlastersThe clay wall systems described above all share a

number of similar unique characteristics. One of the mostimportant being that they create breathable wall systems.In this nature, the wall acts as a filter, creating a healthyindoor environment by actually filtering the contaminantsfrom the outdoor air. It is important to maintain thisbreathability. This can be assured by using a natural clayplaster finish.

The recipes for clay plasters vary, but a common basecoat plaster can be made by mixing 1 part clay to 3 partssand and 1 part finely chopped straw. This mixture mayvary depending on the quality of the clay, climate orenvironment, or the particular application specifications.

Slip form used formwoodchip light clay

wall section.

Applying finish coat ofclay plaster to theLibrary at FMSTB.

Page 36: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

36Thatch

The thatchers trade may be one of theoldest building trades in the world, and itsmodern approach has changed very littlethroughout the ages. It is adaptable to awide variety of materials; water reeds,straw, grasses and palm fronds. A suitablethatch can be obtained in nearly everyregion of the world. As a natural roofingmaterial it is used in its raw form, requiringno manufacturing. However, harvestingcan be time consuming if done by hand,and reed beds need to be developed toproduce quality material. The aestheticbeauty of thatch is unmatched. Coupledwith its low tech requirements and its use ofan annually renewable resource, it de-serves to be considered as a viable naturalroofing option.

Thatching in this country is costly be-cause there is no traditional infrastructure tobuild upon. There is a small and growingindustry evolving, and it is indeed experi-encing a revival in Europe. Our efforts tothatch our own Library roof has openednew and exciting doorways, created rela-tionships with professional thatchers, bothin the U.S. and Europe, and has helped tospawn a small infrastructure in the states.

Whole System BuildingBuilding in a traditional, natural, way

goes beyond the framing and enclosure ifa whole system approach is to be envisionedand implemented. Reducing the impact onthe land during the construction phase,addressing the issue of waste and sew-age—at all levels—and considering long-term energy requirements must all be ad-dressed.

Rubble trench foundations have provento create less impact on the building site,and cost less than traditional foundations.Their design and construction are pro-moted and covered in all of our designseminars. Two of the four buildings atFMSTB have been built on this type offoundation.

Constructed wetlands offer an ecologi-cally sound way to treat sewage and wastewater. Plans for such a system on site areunderway. Future workshops and seminarsare also in the planning stage.

Top) ScottishThatcher, ColinMcGhee, on the roofof the Library.McGhee hasinstructed courses atFM since 1999.Left)British thatcher,Jason Morley, on theroof in the July 1997thatching workshopat FMSTB.

Harvesting reeds in a coastal marsh in Scarboro, Maine.

A rubble trench foundation wasused in the Library at FMSTB.

Page 37: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

37

Hosting a Traveling Workshop

Traveling workshops can be sponsored by justabout anyone interested in timber framing. How-ever, to fully understand the process and expecta-tions, a previous FMSTB workshop is required to beeligible to host a workshop. For the individual, itoffers the opportunity to learn about timber fram-ing, meet new friends, and as a result, end up witha small house, barn, or shop frame at a veryeconomical price. For a timber framing shop, it’s agreat way to train employees and potential clients inthe finer aspects of introductory, and or, advancedframing techniques. Due to the logistics, we havecreated two programs; one for the individual, andone for the professional timber framing shop.

Frame Design ParametersThe primary goal of our workshops is to educate students in the approach

to designing, laying out, cutting and raising a timber frame. As such, frameprojects are designed to incorporate a broad variety of joinery details—thosethat we feel will give students the greatest amount of knowledge and flexibilityin designing and building their own frame. We will work with the sponsor tocreate a design which will serve their ultimate needs, but, we will notcompromise on the essential elements we feel are important to the educationalexperience.

The size of the workshop frame project is dictated primarily by the numberof students participating. We have found that it takes from 3 to 4 students ina workshop setting to comfortably cut each bent in the frame. By expandingthe bent and bay spans to their maximum, 9 to 12 students can cut a 24’ x 32’three bent frame without pushing too hard (remember, this is a learningexperience, not a work marathon). Introductory and Advanced workshopframe projects can be designed to accommodate the needs of both theintended course instruction, as well as the ultimate use of the frame by thesponsor with surprising flexibility.

Individual SponsorsWe have found that six day courses work best for traveling workshops

sponsored by individuals not associated with a professional shop. As in all ofour workshops, education is the primary focus and we view the frame as a by-product of the instruction. Requests to host a workshop will be accepted onlyfrom those who have previously completed a FMSTB workshop. Frame designand working plans are provided by FMSTB based on design terms andparameters described in our Traveling Workshop Worksheet. FMSTB willsupply all instructional material, including A Timber Framer’s Workshop, anda site-specific T-shirt to all students.

The sponsor will provide all of the framing materials (as specified byFMSTB) and a suitable work space. In addition, we ask that the sponsor supplya light continental breakfast and lunch for all participants.

All of the necessary power tools and specialized equipment will beprovided by FMSTB, however, we will supply a list of tools and supplies whichmay be provided by the sponsor if available.

McKelvey Barn, October1998 Workshop project inStow, Massachusetts.

Past TravelingWorkshops

Bodega, CA

Chicago, IL

Ijamsville, MD

West Falmouth, MA

Middleboro, MA

Medway, MA

Stow, MA

Waldoboro, ME

Kansas City, MO

High Rolls, NM

York, PA

Sylvatus, VA

Cambridge, VT

Bowdoinham, ME

Syracuse, NY

Stuart Island, WA

Airville, PA

Oskaloosa, KS

Corbett, OR

Kauai, Hawaii

Canada

Head-of-Jeddore, NS

Dufresne, Manitoba

Hillsdale, Ontario

Costa Rica

San Luis

Monteverde

Tamarindo

Page 38: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

38

Professional Timber Frame Company WorkshopsFor professional timber framing shops we have

developed special programs in both Introductory andAdvanced timber framing. These are 5-day work-shops, and are intended to train in-house shopemployees. Requests to host the professional shopworkshops will be accepted by any organized timberframe company. Specific frame design and workingplans will be formulated to meet the educationalneeds of the companies employees and staff. Work-shop manuals and all instructional materials will beprovided. The sponsor will provide all of the materi-als, tools, shop and or work space. In addition, we askthat the sponsor supply a light continental breakfastand lunch for all participants.

Site Preparation and General RequirementsIn all workshops the site preparation, foundation and first

floor framing must be completed prior to the workshop. All ofthe necessary plans and technical information (stock details)required to carry this out will be supplied by FMSTB once thefinal plan is determined. The sponsor is required to provide allmaterials and supplies. Hand-raisings are appropriate for manyworkshop frames, however, if the size or design of the frameprohibits this, the sponsor is required to provide a crane.

SchedulingWe attempt to schedule all traveling workshops at least six

months in advance. This allows ample time for the designprocess, site preparation and promotion of the workshop.

How to Get StartedIf you would like to begin the process of organizing a workshop, send

us a proposal explaining why you would like to sponsor a workshop, theintended use of the frame project, the site location, preferred dates of theworkshop, and a rough drawing of the type, style and size of the frameyou would like to construct. Upon reviewing this, we will respond withcomments and questions, and attempt to refine the frame project andschedule an appropriate date. Sponsorship is available only to those whohave previously completed a FMSTB workshop.

Design SeminarsIn addition to the hands-on workshops, we also offer one and two day

design seminars which cover the essentials of timber framing, from joinerydesign, framing systems, developing a floor plan, foundation and sitepreparation, enclosure systems, mechanical and electrical system designand installation. This is accompanied with slide shows of the variousprocesses, providing a thorough overview of all aspects of constructing atimber frame home. Design seminars can be arranged to precede hands-on courses, or stand alone.

Please contact us for more information concerning course outline, feesand scheduling.

Advanced Workshopframe project hosted byPride Builders, Winnipeg,Canada, 1995

Page 39: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

39

“Thanks for the wonderful experience this past week. Nicki and I had a great timetaking the workshop and being in Maine.

Our trip home to Virginia was long, but we had a lot to talk about over our 800mile long trek. We’re still amazed by the overall effect the workshop had, and just howbeautiful the process is for cutting and erecting a frame. As we drove home we knewwe accomplished a lot! We made new friends, we learned how to use new tools, andwe especially learned how to say “Jean-Claude.””

Nick and Nicki Salido, Alexandria, Virginia

“I just wanted to drop you a note to let you know what an excellent time I had atyour workshop. I really feel like I learned how to use the tools, and got a good overallunderstanding of what goes into a timber frame…You can read all you want, but forme there’s no substitute for hands-on experience! I can’t wait to take anotherworkshop.

Of course the real highlight of the workshop was meeting you. I thought you weregoing to be just another builder. I had no idea you’d be an artist, and a visionary. Youhave such a contagious passion for your craft! I found it very inspiring. I also like theway you kept the group focused on the philosophical/spiritual as well as practicalaspects of Timberframing.”

David Parchen, Irving, Texas

“I wanted to send along my regards and a few words about my experience at theHigh Rolls, New Mexico workshop.

I feel that I received the full value of the workshop fee on the first day. I gainedvaluable insight into the “quality” of the raw timbers as we chose the right timber forthe various frame members. It was helpful and useful to begin each day with the ‘skullsession’ and then have the opportunity to immediately apply the learning. Over theweek my understanding of the principles of timber framing deepened as my skills withthe tools increased. Your passion for the craft inspired us all and your enthusiasm forthe project quickly transformed a group of strangers into a cooperative, productivework team. The environment of the workshop was made very special by the warmthof the Robinson family and the beautiful setting. So, for anyone considering yourcoursework, I say, “Do it! It will be one of those life learning experiences you will notsoon forget.””

Kenneth Snyder, Seattle, Washington.

“This is a good opportunity to let you know that the timber framing course wasexcellent. I also value the information presented by Frank Andresen on clay buildingsystems. I would definitely take another workshop with you guys, and may do it in thenext year or two.”

Henry Gorczycki, Johnstown, PA

“How do I begin to thank you for this experience which has been life changing?…Ihave always been a carpenter; you have helped to awaken the master who lives withinme in spirit.

In this uncertain world, know that you indeed make a difference. Your kind andbeautiful family, your attitude and philosophy, the country surroundings all serve asan example of the way life should be. You have brought brothers closer together andmade friendships between others which will last almost as long as the frame which wecreated. Those who truly embrace the experience will craft with a new respect for thematerials and the people whom they will serve. Although we are miles apart once more,we stand together, champagne held high in the air, a tribute to our combined effortsand experience at Fox Maple. Vive Jean-Claude.”

Rich Ahrens, Basking Ridge, NJ

“Hello! I’m finally writing with a long overdue Thank-you, for putting on such agreat workshop. It truly was a wonderful experience. I feel like a learned a great dealand it has given me more confidence in my work at school.”

Amy Kiessling, Wheeling, West Virginia.

Letters from Past Students

Page 40: site intro booklet

Fox Maple School of Traditional Building, P.O. Box 249, Brownfield, Maine 04010 • 207-935-3720

40

There are a number of local bed & breakfast’swithin a 5 minute ride from our school, and somea brisk hike. Most of the lodging establishmentslisted below offer a reduced rate for workshopparticipants, so be sure to tell them you are takinga workshop at Fox Maple. Camping is available on-site with bathing facilities. The campus is locatedon a secluded 40 acre parcel, with streams, moun-tains, and bridle paths. Campers should bring tentsand all camping supplies and utensils. Ponds andrivers are nearby for soap-free bathing and the localHealth Club has shower and bathing facilitieswhich can be used for a small fee.

Foothills Farm B&BBrownfield, MaineKevin Early, Theresa Rovere207-935-37991 Mile from Fox MapleRates: $32 single, $42 double

Burnt Meadow B&BBrownfield, MaineCullen Carpenter, 207-935-40145 miles from Fox MapleRates: $50 dbl occupancy.

Purity Spring ResortE. Madison, NH603-367-8896, 1-800-373-375410 miles from Fox MapleRates: $42-$123 single.PSR’s health club & pool is avail-able to campers for bathing facili-ties. Call for special weekly rates.

Directions to Fox MapleFrom Portland, take route 25 west to route 113

(about 3 miles past Standish Village). Follow 113 westapprox. 25 miles to intersection of Rts. 160 & 113 inBrownfield (Grant’s market),and turn left onto 160. Atthe church you’ll come to a Y with a monument on theleft. Go straight at the monument (160 takes a hard left;don’t take it). This is the Snowville Road. Bear right atthe Y after a small bridge, and continue straight past afour corners and a T intersection. Follow signs toSnowville and W. Brownfield. Corn Hill Road (markedFire Lane 21) is 3.5 miles from the monument, whereyou’ll see the thatched Fox Maple sign. Turn right ontoCorn Hill. We’re on the right at the next Y. (1 hour drive.)

From Boston, take route 95 north to the SpauldingTurnpike (Rt. 16 No.) to Conway N.H. Turn right at thelight in town onto Rt 153. Go five miles to Crystal Lakein Eaton, N.H. Turn left at the town beach (this isSnowville Rd). It is about 6 miles to the Fox Maple sign.at the Corn Hill Road (Fire Lane 21). Turn left to ourschool at the end of the lane. (2-1/2 hour drive.)

You can’t miss it. Any questions call 207-935-3720.

Lodging & Accommodations

The Inn at Crystal LakeEaton, NHKen Octeau603-447-2120, 1-800-343-73365 miles from Fox MapleRates: $50 single, $60 double

River-Run CampgroundBrownfield, Maine207-452-25005 Miles from Fox Maple

Woodland Acres CampgroundBrownfield, Maine207-935-25295 Miles from Fox MapleWeekly rate:$19 per nightw/ water & elec.

Workshops run from 9AM to 5PM, daily. Break-fast and a hearty lunch are included in the work-shop tuition. Shopping and numerous restaurantsare located within a 15 minute drive. Friends andfamily members are welcome to accompany work-shop participants, and meals can be provided themfor a nominal fee. We are located in the foothills ofthe White Mountains of western Maine, and manynatural and commercial recreational facilities areclose by which family and friends not enrolled inthe class can enjoy. Children are welcome, but theymust be attended by an adult not enrolled in theworkshop.

For more information about additional lodging,local recreational and historic sites, call theNorth Conway, New Hampshire Chamber ofCommerce at: 603-356-3171

Camping at Fox MapleCamping at Fox Maple is free. Wehave a tipi and a few spaces that offercover. Bathing facilities are availablebut with large groups, there my be aline. Additional bathing facilities withfull health spa are available at PuritySpring Resort, a short 10 minutedrive from the campus for a $5 fee(though they seldom charge FM stu-dents). Call Purity Springs at 1-800-373-3754 for info about daily or weeklyrates.