From summer 2019 to spring 2020 I was fortunate to apprentice with Kohei Yamamoto and Jon Stollenmeyer of Somakosha Woodworking in the countryside near Okayama, Japan. While also working alongside Jon Billing of Big Sand Woodworking, we raised traditionally timber framed structures, cut joinery, completed finish carpentry and absorbed an incredible amount of skill and knowledge. The experience supercharged my woodworking abilities and gave me the confidence and context to dedicate myself to the craft full time.
Raising a pottery studio building in Japan with the Somakosha team.
I am absolutely overjoyed to be offering some of this experience on location in Maine to all who have a keen interest in woodworking, timber framing, Japanese architecture and traditional building. Kohei will lead a 6 day timber framing intensive, and along with Jon Billing and myself, you and upto 15 others will fabricate and raise a large enclosure for our sawmill; what I like to call the “sawmill shrine.” Consider this as both a springboard into the world of timber framing as well as a great period of training to further hone your skills.
About the Building
This structure is designed to serve as both the home for a large bandsaw mill, but also as a workspace to inspire and elevate the craft. I believe that environments of work should be aesthetically pleasing so as to promote the best work for the customer and community. It feels fitting to involve my teacher in such an important and utilitarian building, as in many cases this building will allow for all future workshops and buildings. Furthermore, it is a perfect opportunity to involve all those new and interested in the craft so as to continue the thread of learning and teaching.
The structure will feature massive natural, interlocking beams many of which come from locally sourced 45 foot (13.7m) Eastern White Pine trees. We are very fortunate to have been able to hand select each tree with an eye toward where they would go in the final structure. The construction of the building will provide opportunities for hewing, joinery, planing, scribing, and one of the most rewarding experiences of them all: a whole team coming together to raise a structure over a day or two.
Guest Instructors: Kohei Yamamoto and Jon Billing
Jon Billing
@big_sand_woodworking
After initial ventures in guitar building and diverse woodworking disciplines, Jon's journey led him to Japan in 2019, where he immersed himself in traditional techniques while working with Somakosha. Now, from his Tokyo studio, Jon intricately designs and builds furniture, embodying the precision and artistry of Japanese craftsmanship.
Kohei Yamamoto
Kohei began his career in the furniture arts but eventually took a job as a Japanese Temple and Shrine carpenter, working on famous temples and shrines in Japan including the cultural heritage site: the Grand Shrine at Izumo. He now runs the woodworking firm Somacousha, specializing in traditional buildings that have served Japan for centuries.
Topics Covered
General design philosophy and layout of the Japanese timber frame structure
Review of terms and understanding of layout markings
Process for selecting, preparing, and shaping large timbers
Use of Japanese tools along with power tools to cut joinery
Team assembly and raising of the structure
Process of adjusting, squaring, and fixing the structural members.
Optional hand plane finishing certain parts of the frame
Optional installation of roofing system
Included with Tuition
Meals Included - This six day workshop includes catered Lunch and Dinner on the first day, and Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on the following days. Plus a special raising party at the end!
Instructor Access and Camping - We encourage you to camp for the workshop, as the informal after hours discussions can often clear up many questions you may have. You are welcome to continue to camp on the property after the end of the workshop if you’ll be attending the Maine Japanese Woodworking Festival the following week.
Prerequisites
To gain the maximum value from this workshop, it is recommend you have some woodworking experience. Please inquire if you are a beginner so we can plan accordingly.
We prefer and recommend you to have completed either the:
See our Prerequisites information for qualifying prior training.
Required Tools
This workshop encompases a broad range of woodworkings skills and techniques. The following tools should be considered a minimum to participate fully, however you should feel comfortable bringing your normal set of tools if you have experience with timber framing. Generally, we expect all your tools to be in good working order and sharp. Time spent preparing tools during the workshop takes away from your experience using them. Loaner tools may be available but not guaranteed. Check out our tools page to learn about some available tools for purchase at checkout.
Sharpening supplies: 1000 Grit Water Stone, 6000 Grit Water Stone, Diamond Flattening Plate
15mm, 18mm, and/or 24mm Japanese Chisel (Chu Tataki or Tataki prefered)
Ryoba Saw 270mm or 300mm
Japanese Hammer
Sashigane / Square
Pens/Pencils
Optional Tools
Wider Chisel (30+mm)
Side Cutter Planes (Kiwa ganna)
Kanna
Nail Set
Impact Driver
Circular Saw
Chain Mortiser (The more the merrier)
Auger bits (Star-m or Wood owl) 15mm, 18mm, 20mm
Large mallet “commander”
Ladders
Tool belt
String Line
Marking Gauge
Register Below
Begin your registration process below. You may be presented with the option to purchased curated tools during checkout. Contact us if in need of specific tools.
Attendance limited to 16 students.
Special Pack1age Deal
All students who register for our 2024 timber framing workshop will receive an access code to take a whopping 70% off of the cost of the Maine Japanese Woodworking Festival 2024.
Please kindly review our class and workshop policies at the link below:
For events lasting more than day we offer rustic camping on the property:
For recommended tools for this class and your woodworking career: