September 24-27, 2026
with Ricardo Sierra & Craig Boynton
Timber Frame Enclosure &
Carpentry Skills Workshop
Course Description
This program focuses on the building process AFTER your timber frame is complete. We’ll learn roofing skills, siding, insulation, floor boards & flooring as well as basic carpentry framing skills.
Participants will learn to use circular saws, impact drivers, nail guns, and so much more in this hands on class.
We are excited to teach and give you the ability to complete your project on your own, saving thousands of dollars and giving you the confidence that comes with a job well done!
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We will learn by doing, with hands on roofing, siding, insulation, trim, flooring and possibly door/window installation as time allows.
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No Previous Building Experience Necessary. We welcome ALL levels of skill and experience in a positive, fun and supportive environment.
Class size is limited to 10 students.
The Timber Frame Tradition
Timber framing is a method of building that brings people together. We quickly realize that we can't cut and lift our beams by ourselves.
In our workshops and courses, people of all ages and skill levels, come together as a team to create something beautiful. The rhythm of mallets & chisels, sawing beams and stories shared offers a sense of community, even for a few days, that reminds us of a way of building that was common for hundreds of years.
Course Curriculum
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Power Tool Use & Safety
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Time Saving Layout Techniques
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Choosing the right materials for your budget
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Roofing, Underlayment, Drip Edge & Trim
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Cabin or Project Design Options
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Siding & Exterior Trim Options
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Decking, Flooring & Subfloor
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Insulation, Paneling & Interior Trim
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Natural Building Options
Program Logistics
Friday Arrival Time: 1 pm ET
Sunday Departure Time: 12 pm ET
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Transportation: We can arrange for Albany Airport, Train or Bus pickup and drop off for an additional charge.
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Building Materials Estimates
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Moisture, Heating & Cooling
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Project Budgeting
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Building for Resale vs Self
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Student Q & A
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Problem-solving Strategies
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Work Safety & Gear
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Critical Layering Concepts​
All meals and housing is included!
We have newly renovated, cozy timber frame cabins for you to enjoy during your stay here; a comfortable place to relax after a day of working and learning. (double occupancy)
Our hearty, home made meals are served fresh each day.
We accommodate most allergies and food sensitivities with advance notice.
All wood, tools and materials are provided during the program. If you have some personal tools you can bring to the class, that would be helpful. More details in our Equipment List as part of your Program Details PDF that you can find once you register! ​​​
Your Instructors...
Ricardo Sierra
Founder of Hawk Circle Wilderness Summer Camps and Hawk Circle Timber Frames
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Rick's passion for timber framing began when he was a young builder, working in New England and New York. He noticed a distinct difference in the 'feel' of a timber framed farmhouse, or barn apartment from the modern style of stick building. When he began building cabin and other spaces at his wilderness camp, he knew he needed to learn to cut in the authentic tradition.

He learned through working with Craig Boynton, through the linneage of Jack Sobon, using square rule and the Historical American Joinery aesthetic found throughout the New England and New York area. He has since built cabins, barns, workshops, retreat centers, houses, small animal barns, bridges and even some chicken coops.
Craig Boynton
Craig has been a timber framer and builder for decades, working in both traditional and modern building styles and designs. He specializes in unique and difficult custom woodwork through Bancroft Custom Woodworks and he has brought timber framing to Hawk Circle in the early 2000's to help create cabins and spaces that would last.
Program Registration
Timber Frame Enclosure &
Carpentry Skills Workshop
September 24-27, 2026
Tuition: $995 Enclosure/Carpentry Skills-Residential
Includes course, payment plan, onsite lodging and meals.
$300 non-refundable deposit due at registration.
SAVE when you pay in full!
Tuition: $695 Enclosure/Carpentry Skills-Commuter
Includes the course, payment plan and meals only. No lodging.
$300 non-refundable deposit due at registration.
