Square Rule Timber Framing (Estonian/English)
Square Rule Timber Framing
Traditional timber frame construction is crafted from timbers connected by mortise and tenon joinery, fastened with hardwood pegs. Historically, timber frameing has been used in Estonia primarily in the roof structures of churches, manor houses, and other big buildings. Half-timbered construction is architecturally beautiful and technically affordable for building a smaller structure, such as a summer kitchen, garage, or garden house, on your own.
In this course, we teach timber framing using the square rule method, where details are made one piece at a time based on detailed drawings, which is the easiest way to start with timber framing for beginners. During the course, participants will construct a 4×5 m timber frame from the first tenons to the last purlin.
This time, the course will be held simultaneously in Estonian and English. We encourage foreigners living in Estonia, who have previously been deterred by the lack of Estonian language skills, to participate!
The Dates: February 16-20, 2026
The Tutor: Tarmo Tammekivi
Since the first contact with timber framing in 2003 Tarmo has learned and taught carpentry both in Estonia and the USA. Tarmo holds a Master’s degree in Heritage Crafts from the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy, where he also teaches as a lecturer in Heritage Building. His company, OÜ Puu ja Pliiats, designs and builds timber framed structures.
Participation Fee: 420 EUR (incl. VAT)
Participation fee includes lunch and does not include lodging. For those travelling from further away, we recommend Mooste Manor Guesthouse (30 eur/night).
Training site: Vanaajamaja workshop, Põlva county, Mooste, Lasteaia tee 14.
Koolituse toimumise koht:
Vanaajamaja koolituskeskus
