🔪 Learn to Sharpen Your Tools – No Experience Needed!
2025-09-20 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | WI
Taught by Jon Anderson of Star Hill Timberworks
Bring your dull tools back to life in this hands-on sharpening workshop designed for beginners! You’ll learn to sharpen knives, axes, chisels, and auger bits – plus pick up techniques that work just as well on mower blades, scissors, hoes, shovels, and more.
Using both traditional and modern methods, you’ll gain confidence in honing and polishing a clean, effective edge. All sharpening equipment and materials are provided. Sharpening stones, guides, and other supplies will also be available for purchase during the workshop.

🗓 Choose Your Date:• Saturday, July 12• Saturday, September 20⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM📍 Location: Star Hill Timberworks, Ellsworth, WI

💰 Workshop Fee: $70

🧤 What to Bring

Sturdy work shoes

Gloves

Safety glasses

Any tools or blades you’d like to practice sharpening

Note: The class will be held in a covered workshop – protected from the elements but not fully climate-controlled. Please dress for the weather.

Sharpen your skills, care for your tools, and build confidence in your craft.Reserve your spot today – space is limited!

Ready to Build: 5-Day Timber Framing Class – No Experience Required!
2025-09-24 08:00 - 2025-09-28 17:00 | Star Hill Timberworks, Ellsworth, WI, 54011, United States
Are you ready to build your own timber frame structure? Our comprehensive 5-day “Ready to Build” class is perfect for those eager to start their first project—no prior experience needed! Learn the Square Rule method alongside the exclusive Star Hill Timberworks Layout System through hands-on training with expert guidance. This course will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to succeed in timber framing.
Why Choose Star Hill Timberworks?

Expert Instruction: Learn from seasoned professionals passionate about timber framing and dedicated to your success.
Hands-On Experience: During the class, spend 95% of your time working on real-world projects, gaining practical skills you can use immediately.
Personalized Attention: Small class sizes ensure one-on-one instruction, helping you master the skills needed to cut your own timber frame.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Learn the entire process—from laying out timbers and cutting joinery to test fitting and using both hand and power tools.
Exclusive Star Hill Layout System: Your class fee includes our patented layout tools (Mortise and Tenon Master, Framer’s Friend, and EZ Brace), ensuring accurate and efficient timber layout.

Bonus Learning Opportunities:

Optional After-Hours Instruction: Explore advanced topics like centerline layout, rigging, tool sharpening, and the Two Guys Timber Framing method for cutting joinery using a sawmill.
Personal Project Review: Receive one-on-one consultation with Jon Anderson, founder of Star Hill Timberworks, to review your personal timber framing project

Learning opportunities are optional. Make your selection during checkout.
Class Details:

Location: Held at our heated shop in Ellsworth, Wisconsin, just 30 minutes south of Hudson, WI, and an hour from Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN. Weather permitting, we also work outside under cover.

Dates: September 24–28, 2025

Class Fee: $2,000 (includes the Star Hill Layout System – Framer’s Friend, Mortise and Tenon Master, and EZ Brace)
Reserve Your Spot: A $700 non-refundable/non-transferable deposit is required. The balance will be invoiced and is due on the first day of class.
Class Size: Limited to ensure personalized instruction

What’s Included:

Exclusive Layout Tools: The Star Hill Layout System (Mortise and Tenon Master, Framer’s Friend, and EZ Brace) is included in your class fee and ready for use on Day 1.
Structure Purchase Option: The frame built during the class is available for purchase. Early commitment allows for design customization. Interested? Contact Jon@StarHillTimberworks.com.
Digital Plans: Students receive the digital plan for the class project, plus one additional free plan of your choice from our website.
Exclusive Discounts: Get 20% off timbers and custom timber frame plans for your project within 6 months of completing the class.
Primitive Camping: On-site camping is included, with nearby accommodations available in Red Wing, MN.
Lunch Provided: Please let us know if you have dietary restrictions.

Additional Perks:

After-Hours Sessions: Delve into advanced topics like centerline layout, rigging, tool sharpening, and sawmill operation.

Centerline Layout: Learn how to align curved and twisted timbers for perfect joinery.
Tool Sharpening: Practice sharpening your tools in hands-on sessions.
Sawmill Joinery: Learn how to use a sawmill and cut complex joints.

Required Equipment:

Framing Chisel (1 1/2″ or 2″): Limited Star Hill Timberworks chisels are available for purchase for $180. If needed, you can reserve a chisel during checkout (while supplies last).
Safety Gear: Please bring sturdy work shoes, safety glasses, ear plugs, and gloves (dust mask optional).

Secure Your Spot Today!
Join us for an unforgettable learning experience and leave with the skills and confidence to build your own timber-framed structure.
——————————————
Deposit is Non-Refundable
——————————————

ready to build: 5-day timber framing class – no experience required!
2025-10-15 08:00 - 2025-10-19 17:00 | Star Hill Timberworks, Ellsworth, WI, 54011, United States
ready to build your own timber frame?
a hands-on timber framing class for beginners and builders alikeoctober 15–19, 2025 | ellsworth, wi | limited to 8 students

two things you won’t find anywhere else
exclusive digital timber framing practices manualevery student receives our one-of-a-kind step-by-step timber framing practices manual — a $199 value you can’t get anywhere else. it’s the exact process we use in our shop, with clear photos and instructions for every step. we send your download link as soon as your deposit is paid, so you can review the techniques before you arrive.
best instructor support in the u.s.three experienced instructors for just eight students — a 3:8 ratio that’s unmatched by any other timber framing class in the country. you’ll get hands-on guidance on every layout, cut, and fit.

learn to build. the right way.
whether you’re planning your first project or just want to learn the fundamentals, the ready to build class gives you the confidence, skills, and tools to get started — using real joinery on real timbers, not just sample cuts on the bench.
you’ll learn the square rule layout method, gain hands-on practice with power and hand tools, and build a complete frame alongside experienced instructors and like-minded students.

build real, not just practice
you’ll spend nearly all your time working on a real timber frame structure — laying out, cutting joinery, fitting, and test-raising as a team.

choose your tool package
select from three enrollment tiers to match your goals. options range from instruction-only to full tool ownership and lifetime digital resources.

bonus learning: after-hours sessions
optional evening topics are offered based on student interest. choose your focus at checkout:

centerline layout for curved/twisted timbers

tool sharpening

rigging & lifting with shears (army fm-125 style)

sawmill joinery (two guys timber framing technique)

class details
dates: october 15–19, 2025location: heated shop in ellsworth, wi (1 hour east of minneapolis/st. paul)outdoor covered work areas available (weather permitting)note: msp rideshares are unreliable — arrange local transportation in advance.

tiered enrollment options
standard enrollment – $2000for students who want hands-on experience with instruction and shared tools.includes:

5-day class

3:8 instructor ratio

shared tool use

real frame layout, joinery, and test fit

timber framing practices manual (digital)

completion certificate

tools in hand – $2400for students ready to leave class with layout tools and project guidance.includes everything in standard, plus:

aluminum star hill layout system ($599 value)

1½″ or 2″ chisel ($180 value)

digital class frame plan + one additional digital plan

30-minute personal project consult with star hill staff(over $1000 in tools, plans, and support included)

all in experience – $2950for students who want the full star hill experience — with premium tools and personalized post-class support.includes everything in tools in hand, plus:

powder-coated stainless steel layout system upgrade ($750 value)

1½″ and 2″ chisels

bound 11×17 shop-ready manual

coupon to download all digital plans on the star hill website

1-hour private post-class consult with founder jon anderson(over $1650 in premium tools, resources, and coaching included)

compare enrollment tiers

feature
standard ($2000)
tools in hand ($2400)
all in experience ($2950)

5-day class instruction
✓
✓
✓

3:8 instructor ratio
✓
✓
✓

use of shared tools
✓
✓
✓

layout & test fit of real frame
✓
✓
✓

star hill layout system
–
aluminum
powder-coated stainless steel

timber framing chisel
–
1½″ or 2″
1½″ and 2″

custom chisel sheath
–
–
leather

digital class frame plan
–
✓
✓

tf practices manual (digital)
✓
✓
✓

bound workbench manual
–
–
11×17 format

consultation
–
30 min w/ staff
1 hr w/ jon anderson

digital plan access
–
one bonus plan
all plans via coupon

registration & deposit

a $700 deposit secures your spot

deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable

remaining balance due on the first day of class

digital timber framing practices manual sent after deposit is received

frame purchase option
the timber frame we build during class will be available for purchase.interested in customizing the design? reach out early to claim the frame and influence the build.contact: jon@starhilltimberworks.com

what to bring
safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, sturdy footwearenthusiasm and curiosity — no prior experience required

reserve your spot
enrollment is limited to 8 students and this class will fill quickly.choose your tier, secure your tools, and join us for a week that could shape your future builds.

Ready to Build: 5-day Timber Framing Class – No Experience Required!
2026-05-20 08:00 - 2026-05-24 17:00 | Star Hill Timberworks, Ellsworth, WI, 54011, United States
build the timber frame you’ve been imagining
a hands-on timber framing class built around a clear workflow and a timber frame kit that makes building approachable
ellsworth, wisconsin | limited to 10 students
if you’ve ever pictured yourself standing inside a timber frame you built with your own hands — a cabin, a home, a shop — this class exists to help make that real.
not someday.not in theory.in practice.

from dream to structure
many people want to build a timber frame.most don’t know where to start.
common questions we hear:

where do i begin?

what tools do i actually need?

do i need to be good at math?

how do i know i’m doing it right?

this class answers those questions by giving you direct experience.
you don’t just learn how timber frames are built.you help build one — from layout to test raise.

the star hill timber framing system
this class is taught using the star hill timber framing system — a clear, repeatable methodology for building timber frames without guesswork.
the system is built around a simple idea:

if the process is clear, anyone can build.

instead of relying on math, tricks, or intuition, the system provides:

a defined workflow from first timber to test raise

a repeatable layout method that doesn’t rely on calculations

consistent references that reduce mental overhead

confidence that you know what to do next

this isn’t about doing things one “correct” way.it’s about understanding the process well enough to build your own way.

a method designed to be approachable
you don’t need:

advanced math

geometry formulas

years of experience

special shop instincts

the star hill system works because:

layout is physical, not theoretical

accuracy comes from reference, not math

mistakes show up early and can be corrected

steps happen in a clear, repeatable order

if you can follow a process, you can build a timber frame.

the timber frame kit (and why it matters)
at the center of the system is the timber frame kit.
the timber frame kit is a physical layout system that allows you to:

lay out joinery quickly and consistently

work without calculations or complex geometry

transfer layout directly to the timber

focus on fit and accuracy instead of numbers

rather than asking you to figure things out, the timber frame kit acts as a physical reference that keeps your layout honest and repeatable.
the kit used in this class is made from 304 stainless steel for durability and long-term shop use, and it’s the same system used in the star hill shop.

multiple ways to build — one clear system
timber framing isn’t one thing, and we don’t teach it as such.
within the star hill timber framing system, students are exposed to:

traditional hand-tool timber framing

mid-level power-tool workflows

high-end power-tool approaches used in production shops

because the class is small, we can:

explore different approaches in real time

focus on the methods you’re most interested in

help you understand the tradeoffs between speed, cost, and complexity

the goal isn’t to tell you what tools to buy.the goal is to help you understand why you’d choose one approach over another.

prepared to choose tools with confidence
by the end of the class, students aren’t guessing about tools — they’re informed.
you leave knowing:

which tools matter for your goals

which tools can wait

how different tools affect workflow, accuracy, and pace

after the class, students receive access to a curated list of recommended timber framing tools, including tools outside the star hill system that we’ve found valuable in real-world timber framing.
these recommendations are provided as guidance, not requirements.

what you leave with
students don’t leave inspired — they leave oriented.
you walk away with:

experience working on a real timber frame structure

a workflow you trust and can repeat on your own

clarity around tools, methods, and next steps

confidence that comes from having done the work

for many students, this is the moment when building a timber frame stops being a dream and starts being a plan.

small class. real instruction.
enrollment is limited to 10 students so instruction stays personal and hands-on.
that means:

layout lines are checked and discussed

joints are reviewed before and after cutting

questions are answered in the moment

uncertainty is resolved before it turns into doubt

you’re not watching from the sidelines.you’re building — with guidance — the entire week.

build something real
this is not a bench class.
nearly all of your time is spent working on a full timber frame structure:

full layout

real joinery

fitting and adjustment

test raising as a crew

everything you cut is part of the frame.
standing inside a structure you helped build changes what you believe you’re capable of.

manuals & plans
students receive the digital timber framing practices manual, which documents the star hill system step by step:

layout logic

sequencing

cutting and fitting workflow

the digital manual is provided before class, so you arrive already familiar with the process.
students also receive a digital copy of the timber frame plan built during the class.
a printed poly shop manual will be available at the class for those who prefer a physical reference.

registration & initial payment
to enroll, an initial payment of $700 is required.
this is the first portion of the class tuition and begins your participation in the star hill timber framing system.
with your initial payment, you receive:

the timber frame kit, shipped prior to class

access to the digital timber framing practices manual

the remaining class balance is due on the first day of class.

bringing your timber frame kit to class
students are encouraged to bring their timber frame kit to class and work with their own tools.
if travel logistics make that difficult, loaner layout tools are available, so no one is limited by what they can bring.

chisels & hand tools during class
loaner chisels are provided for all students.
you’re encouraged to bring your own chisels if you have them, but it’s not required.
throughout the week, you’ll work with a range of hand tools and power tools, gaining hands-on experience before deciding what belongs in your own shop.
chisels, saws, and other tools will be available for purchase during the class if you choose to expand your kit.

class details
datesmay 20-24, 2026
locationheated shop in ellsworth, wiapproximately one hour east of minneapolis / st. paul
outdoor covered work areas available, weather permitting.

what to bring

safety glasses

hearing protection

gloves

sturdy footwear

no prior experience required — just curiosity and a willingness to work.

reserve your spot
this class will fill.
if you’re ready to move from imagining a timber frame to knowing how to build one — and knowing how you want to build it — we’d be glad to work with you.
build. remember. repeat.

Ready to Build: 5-day Timber Framing Class – No Experience Required!
2026-06-17 08:00 - 2026-06-21 17:00 | Star Hill Timberworks, Ellsworth, WI, 54011, United States
build the timber frame you’ve been imagining
a hands-on timber framing class built around a clear workflow and a timber frame kit that makes building approachable
ellsworth, wisconsin | limited to 10 students
if you’ve ever pictured yourself standing inside a timber frame you built with your own hands — a cabin, a home, a shop — this class exists to help make that real.
not someday.not in theory.in practice.

from dream to structure
many people want to build a timber frame.most don’t know where to start.
common questions we hear:

where do i begin?

what tools do i actually need?

do i need to be good at math?

how do i know i’m doing it right?

this class answers those questions by giving you direct experience.
you don’t just learn how timber frames are built.you help build one — from layout to test raise.

the star hill timber framing system
this class is taught using the star hill timber framing system — a clear, repeatable methodology for building timber frames without guesswork.
the system is built around a simple idea:

if the process is clear, anyone can build.

instead of relying on math, tricks, or intuition, the system provides:

a defined workflow from first timber to test raise

a repeatable layout method that doesn’t rely on calculations

consistent references that reduce mental overhead

confidence that you know what to do next

this isn’t about doing things one “correct” way.it’s about understanding the process well enough to build your own way.

a method designed to be approachable
you don’t need:

advanced math

geometry formulas

years of experience

special shop instincts

the star hill system works because:

layout is physical, not theoretical

accuracy comes from reference, not math

mistakes show up early and can be corrected

steps happen in a clear, repeatable order

if you can follow a process, you can build a timber frame.

the timber frame kit (and why it matters)
at the center of the system is the timber frame kit.
the timber frame kit is a physical layout system that allows you to:

lay out joinery quickly and consistently

work without calculations or complex geometry

transfer layout directly to the timber

focus on fit and accuracy instead of numbers

rather than asking you to figure things out, the timber frame kit acts as a physical reference that keeps your layout honest and repeatable.
the kit used in this class is made from 304 stainless steel for durability and long-term shop use, and it’s the same system used in the star hill shop.

multiple ways to build — one clear system
timber framing isn’t one thing, and we don’t teach it as such.
within the star hill timber framing system, students are exposed to:

traditional hand-tool timber framing

mid-level power-tool workflows

high-end power-tool approaches used in production shops

because the class is small, we can:

explore different approaches in real time

focus on the methods you’re most interested in

help you understand the tradeoffs between speed, cost, and complexity

the goal isn’t to tell you what tools to buy.the goal is to help you understand why you’d choose one approach over another.

prepared to choose tools with confidence
by the end of the class, students aren’t guessing about tools — they’re informed.
you leave knowing:

which tools matter for your goals

which tools can wait

how different tools affect workflow, accuracy, and pace

after the class, students receive access to a curated list of recommended timber framing tools, including tools outside the star hill system that we’ve found valuable in real-world timber framing.
these recommendations are provided as guidance, not requirements.

what you leave with
students don’t leave inspired — they leave oriented.
you walk away with:

experience working on a real timber frame structure

a workflow you trust and can repeat on your own

clarity around tools, methods, and next steps

confidence that comes from having done the work

for many students, this is the moment when building a timber frame stops being a dream and starts being a plan.

small class. real instruction.
enrollment is limited to 10 students so instruction stays personal and hands-on.
that means:

layout lines are checked and discussed

joints are reviewed before and after cutting

questions are answered in the moment

uncertainty is resolved before it turns into doubt

you’re not watching from the sidelines.you’re building — with guidance — the entire week.

build something real
this is not a bench class.
nearly all of your time is spent working on a full timber frame structure:

full layout

real joinery

fitting and adjustment

test raising as a crew

everything you cut is part of the frame.
standing inside a structure you helped build changes what you believe you’re capable of.

manuals & plans
students receive the digital timber framing practices manual, which documents the star hill system step by step:

layout logic

sequencing

cutting and fitting workflow

the digital manual is provided before class, so you arrive already familiar with the process.
students also receive a digital copy of the timber frame plan built during the class.
a printed poly shop manual will be available at the class for those who prefer a physical reference.

registration & initial payment
to enroll, an initial payment of $700 is required.
this is the first portion of the class tuition and begins your participation in the star hill timber framing system.
with your initial payment, you receive:

the timber frame kit, shipped prior to class

access to the digital timber framing practices manual

the remaining class balance is due on the first day of class.

bringing your timber frame kit to class
students are encouraged to bring their timber frame kit to class and work with their own tools.
if travel logistics make that difficult, loaner layout tools are available, so no one is limited by what they can bring.

chisels & hand tools during class
loaner chisels are provided for all students.
you’re encouraged to bring your own chisels if you have them, but it’s not required.
throughout the week, you’ll work with a range of hand tools and power tools, gaining hands-on experience before deciding what belongs in your own shop.
chisels, saws, and other tools will be available for purchase during the class if you choose to expand your kit.

class details
datesjune 17-21, 2026
locationheated shop in ellsworth, wiapproximately one hour east of minneapolis / st. paul
outdoor covered work areas available, weather permitting.

what to bring

safety glasses

hearing protection

gloves

sturdy footwear

no prior experience required — just curiosity and a willingness to work.

reserve your spot
this class will fill.
if you’re ready to move from imagining a timber frame to knowing how to build one — and knowing how you want to build it — we’d be glad to work with you.
build. remember. repeat.
