Timber Framing Workshop

Saturday, September 27 | 9 - 5:30 p.m.

$70 per person

Create @ the Homestead

What You’ll Do

Help us build a principal scissor truss for the future pavilion planned for our property.

  • Learn the fundamentals of traditional timber framing through a blend of hands-on learning, demonstrations, and expert-led discussions.

  • Work alongside skilled practitioners to assemble a principal scissor truss—a key structural element in the Pavilion project, a timber-framed gathering space we aim to complete by 2027.

  • Gain insight into truss systems, traditional joinery, timber selection, and the sustainability and durability of timber frame structures.

  • Learn about the evolution of the craft of timber framing, and why this skill is relevant to our building industry today! 

Curious, but just want to watch?

If you want to learn more about timber framing, but from afar, drop-by Heritage Conservation in Action Open House on Friday, Sept. 26 to watch Willowbank School of Restoration Arts students work on their portion of the timber frame project onsite.

  • Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025

  • Time: 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

  • Cost: $70 per person

  • Spots Available: 10 (Register early!)

Join us for a unique, hands-on Timber Framing Workshop at The Brown Homestead c. 1796, where we’re dedicated to preserving and sharing traditional heritage building skills. 

Whether you're a history enthusiast, aspiring builder, hobbyist woodworker or curious community member, this full-day introductory workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn the traditional craft of timber framing—and help build a lasting legacy on our historic site.

Learn Traditional Building Skills, Leave a Legacy.

Please note: This workshop is now FULL.

We apologize for the inconvenience. We invite you to drop-by our Heritage Conservation in Action Open House during Culture Days on Friday, September 26 to get a sneak peak of the timber frame project and chat with skilled tradespeople and heritage conservation professionals.

Who You’ll Learn From

  • Dawson Willsey is an experienced timber framer and is a graduate of the Algonquin College Heritage Carpentry program. Dawson owns Pondering Pine Design and Timberworks, and the traditional timber framing instructor at the Willowbank School of Restoration Arts.

Why Participate?

This workshop is more than a lesson in building techniques—it's a unique way to connect with our region’s built heritage, explore historic and sustainable building methods, and take part in a tangible community project. You’ll walk away with:

  • New knowledge of Ontario’s timber framing heritage

  • Hands-on experience with tools and techniques

  • A deeper appreciation for traditional craftsmanship and its modern relevance.

Register Now - Only 10 Spots Available!

This workshop is limited to ensure a rich, interactive experience. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting build.

Timber Framing Workshop - Sat Sept 27, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Timber Framing Workshop - Sat Sept 27, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Sold out
Timber Framing Workshop - Sat Sept 27, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
CA$70.00

Please Note

Due to the nature of the workshop, participants must feel comfortable lifting 50 lbs., and steel toed shoes are required to be worn at all times.

Lunch will be provided as well as coffee and tea. Please bring your own reusable cup or water bottle if possible.


Thank you to our Sponsor

We are pleased to offer this program thanks to the generous financial contributions of the INTBAU Grassroots Grants Programme 2025.