Monday 11 June 2012, 9.30am to 5pm

The course

The use of the roofing square is a fundamental skill of carpentry. Learn how to line out and cut the softwood timber rafters for lean-to, gable and hipped roofs. This day will help demystify this essential carpenter’s tool.

There are a large number of variations on how to use the square and we will follow a simple 19th and 20th century method using the square to generate all lengths and bevels, without using any rafter tables, ready reckoners, or calculators. Imperial measurements are used during the day, but metric conversion is explained.

All necessary tools will be provided, but participants can bring along any tools and reference books if they wish.  We will work on a model roof, in the Museum’s Downland Gridshell building.

The rafters to Whittaker’s Cottages (circa 1865, and re-erected at the Weald & Downland Open Air Museum) were cut and pitched using the roofing square.

The tutor

Joe Thompson of Sussex Oak & Iron is carpenter in residence at the Weald & Downland Open Air Museum. He teaches a range of historic carpentry courses at the museum. He has developed a keen analytical eye and a scholar’s passion for following and interpreting the evidence along with a natural skill in teaching.  More information can be found on Joe’s website at www.sussexoak.co.uk

Participant information

The course will be limited to 12 participants.  Practical clothing and a pair of safety boots are required.  Stills photography and note taking is encouraged.  Video photography is not permitted.

Fee

£99 per person for full participation in the workshop., to include teas, coffees and a light lunch.

Useful websites
www.tfguild.org
www.carpentersfellowship.co.uk

The Museum

The Weald & Downland Open Air Museum has over 45 historic building exhibits.  It is also home to the award winning and innovative Downland Gridshell, which houses a conservation workshop and artefact store, and is also used for many practical courses.  The Museum runs a full programme of courses in historic building conservation and traditional rural trades and crafts, along with MSc programmes in Building Conservation and Timber Building Conservation. Please telephone for further details.

To book, download a form here. Alternatively, fill in the booking request below.

Make a Booking Request

 
This is an initial booking request form, and does not guarantee a place on the course. The Adult Learning Team will check the availability of the course, and reply to you as soon as possible - usually within one working day.