Oak Timber Framing: Roof Framing – SOLD OUT

This course is fully booked.  Please email courses@wealddown.co.uk or call 01243 811021 if you wish to be added to the waiting list.

The Course

The workshop is designed to enable students to frame both a gable and a hipped roof over two simple frames constructed on two previous oak timber framing workshops. It covers the lining out, cutting and fitting of common, principal, hip and jack rafters.

The tools and techniques introduced in this workshop are suitable for both new build and repair work.

The workshop aims to develop the students’ knowledge and experience to the specific problems facing the historic carpenter framing with “wet” or “green” oak and introduces solutions to framing timbers together to ensure the correct lengths, bevels and allowances. A range of tools will be demonstrated to illustrate those used today and in the past.

By completing all three workshops students will have covered the lining out and cutting of all the joints required for a simple one-bay timber framed building.

Timber Framing from Scratch – Frequently Asked Questions (PDF, 379Kb)

The Tutor

Joe Thompson of Sussex Oak & Iron is the MSc Timber Building Conservation Programme Leader at the Weald & Downland Living 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.

Participant Information

The course will be limited to 8 participants, and is suitable for everybody, from complete beginners to experienced carpenters. As most work will take place in the unheated Gridshell workshop, warm and practical clothing should be worn and a pair of steel-toe safety boots are required. Stills photography and note taking is encouraged. Video photography is not permitted.

Fee & Refreshments

£575 per person for the workshop. This includes tuition, tools and materials, teas and coffees. Please let the Museum know if you have any dietary requirements. Lunch is available in the Museum cafe and at local pubs.