Events
Thursday 19 September 2024
Using our exhibit buildings from the South East, participants learn how to investigate stylistic evidence including the number, position and arrangement of timbers to date buildings from the late 1300s to the 1900s.
The day provides a wonderful opportunity to investigate different types of timber-framed buildings and will include:
- Learning how to spot the differences between a crown post and a king post.
- Seeing how radically roofs change between the medieval and Georgian periods.
- Watching purlin(s) appear and disappear, and observing how braces change shape and length becoming concealed over the centuries.
- Marvel at the skill of the carpenters and their work, and how their tools and techniques evolved to meet the changing needs of their customers.
Tuesday 21 May 2024
Learning how to use a roofing square is a fundamental skill in carpentry. This course will help demystify this essential carpenter’s tool. You’ll practice how to line out and cut softwood timber rafters for lean-to, gable and hipped roofs following a late 19th/20th century method where you use the square to calculate the lengths and bevels, without needing rafter tables, ready reckoners, or electronic devices. Imperial measurements are used during the day, but metric conversion is explained.
Book nowThursday 26 September 2024
Wattle and daub was a much used material for panel in-filling of timber framed buildings. The exact wood used for the wattle and the mix which was daubed over it to keep the wind and weather out were dependent on the materials available. There are many examples of wattle and daub panels at the Museum, some are historic, having been saved from the original buildings and re-fitted and some have been replicated as replacement panels. Students will have the opportunity to view a selection of these and other samples in the artefact store, followed by a practical hands-on session, and a lecture on the appraisal and techniques of repair.
Book nowTuesday 16 to Thursday 18 July 2024
Three practical days introducing students to a range of timber repairs. The course will include the approach to timber frame conservation, the use of hand and portable power tools. We will be looking at the use of fresh-sawn, semi-seasoned and air-dried oak and their pros and cons, along with an overview of metal straps, plates and fixings. A variety of repairs around the Museum provide further examples, and also show the effects of time. The practical exercises focus on inserting and repairing timbers of standing, rather than dismantled frames.
Book now