this is about going from thinking about a cabin to knowing—confidently—that you can build one.

with the dovetail cabin jig, there’s almost no learning curve. it takes about one hour to understand the system. the rest of the weekend is spent doing the thing that actually matters: building proficiency through repetition.

by the end of the weekend, you won’t just understand dovetail log construction—you’ll be ready to start your own project.

what we’re building

over two full days, we’ll build a 10 x 12 dovetail log cabin from the ground up.

• full dovetail corners

• 6 x 8 timbers

• 1″ chinking gap

• cut entirely with chainsaws and a dovetail jig

• every student works hands-on throughout the build

as part of the roof system, we’ll also install a king post and ridge beam using Star Hill Timberworks timber frame practices. these methods are partially employed for the ridge, showing how traditional timber framing integrates with dovetail log construction.

this is not a demo. you’re on the tools.

why couch to cabin

most people think building a cabin requires years of experience or extensive classes.

you don’t need years of experience or extensive classes—you need the right system and time on the tools.

using the jig system developed by Dovetail Cabin Tools, the method is simple, repeatable, and forgiving. once you understand the workflow, it’s all about rhythm, accuracy, and confidence—things you only get by doing.

this weekend is designed so that:

• the learning happens fast

• the practice happens all weekend

• you leave knowing you can do this again on your own land

class size & instruction

this class is limited to 10 students and taught by multiple instructors.

that means more time on the tools, closer guidance, and constant feedback as the build progresses. the goal is not to rush—it’s to make sure every student gets real reps and leaves confident enough to start their own cabin.

bonus — included with registration

as a bonus, each registered student will receive the digital timber framing practices manual ($199 value).

this is in addition to the dovetail cabin techniques taught during the class. we’ll partially employ these timber framing methods during the installation of the king post and ridge beam, giving you real-world context for how the systems work together.

the manual serves as a long-term reference so you can continue applying these methods on future builds.

optional — couch to cabin tool kits

we will have two couch to cabin tool kits available for purchase by students.

these kits are designed so you can leave class with the exact system you trained on, ready to start your own cabin build immediately.

each kit includes

• 6×8 dovetail jig

• Star Hill Timberworks ezl (easy layout)

• chainsaw with bar drilled for guides

• guide-ready bar setup

• star hill 3″ slick

kits must be reserved prior to class.

• retail value: $2,760

• student price: $2,400

to reserve a kit, call jon at 651-494-4166 or email jon@starhilltimberworks.com.
first come, first served.

optional — purchase the class build

the cabin components cut during class may be available for purchase at the end of the weekend.

availability depends on the build and completion status.

for details and pricing, contact jon directly:
call: 651-494-4166
email: jon@starhilltimberworks.com

first come, first served.

what you’ll learn

• chainsaw use & jobsite safety

• laying out and cutting dovetails with the jig

• splice cutting

• log handling and sequencing

• integrating timber frame elements into a dovetail structure

• reading the build so you can repeat it independently

the goal isn’t mastery in two days—the goal is removing the barrier between you and your first cabin.

details

• dates: may 16–17

• time: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm each day

• cost: $1,500

• deposit: $500 non-refundable (holds your spot)

spaces are limited to keep the build truly hands-on.

location & travel

the class takes place in Ellsworth.

if you’re flying in, Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport is about one hour away. we strongly recommend renting a car—rideshare services are not available in the area.

lodging

most students stay in Red Wing, approximately 11 miles from the build site.

required safety gear

all students must bring:

• safety glasses

• work boots (steel or fiberglass toe required)

• heavy leather gloves

• ear protection

weather, workspace & meals

work takes place outdoors. covered work areas and a heated shop are available, but bring clothing appropriate for poor or changing weather.

lunch is provided both days.

this is for people who are done watching and ready to start building.

#buildrememberrepeat