Unique Opportunity: Trade 35 Days of RV Camping for Expert Timber Framing Instruction
Seeking Warm, Scenic, Private Locations — Winter 2025–2026
Jon Anderson, founder of Star Hill Timberworks, will be traveling this winter with his wife, their RV, and two friendly 7-year-old Aussies. We’re offering a unique opportunity to trade 35 days of private RV camping (including 5 days for class instruction) in exchange for a hands-on timber framing course taught in a warm, beautiful, and private setting.
We are specifically seeking peaceful, scenic locations in warm winter climates—Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, or similar states across the continental U.S.—where we can enjoy mild weather and share the craft of timber framing.
What We’re Offering
A 5-day hands-on timber framing class led by Jon Anderson, using the proven Star Hill “Ready to Build” format. Students learn traditional joinery and layout techniques using our exclusive Star Hill Layout System (required for every participant).
Choose Your Class Format
- Private Class: Just for you or your group, focused on your chosen project. The host must purchase the Star Hill Layout System for each participant at retail pricing.
- Public Class: You handle advertising and registration; we provide marketing support and pre-class consultation. The host must purchase the Star Hill Layout System for each participant, but both the Layout System and additional tooling will be provided at a discounted rate, which can be factored into student fees.
Class is limited to 8 students max. We expect to select up to two host locations for the 2025–2026 season.
Project Scope
You choose the project and design:
• One of our Ready to Build plans (sauna, gazebo, pergola, etc.), or
• Your own plan (subject to vetting and approval).
Public classes aim to give students the skills to tackle their own projects—most small structures are started or largely completed in 5 days, though full completion isn’t guaranteed. Private classes can be tailored to any learning goal or project focus.
What The Host Provides
- 35 days of RV camping (30 personal days + 5 class days)
- Must include a 30-amp electrical hookup, water, and sewer
- Privacy preferred (not in an RV park)
- Large fenced area or secure space for two well-behaved dogs
- Priority given to locations with large, fenced-in dog areas
- Covered work area for timber layout and joinery
- All project materials (timbers, pegs, fasteners, etc.)
- Star Hill Layout System for each participant (host to purchase)
- Adequate tooling for up to 8 students: circular saws, chain mortiser(s), drills, sawhorses, chisels, and other basic framing tools
We’ll provide a full tool list and prep guidance.
Public Class Hosts must also provide:**
- 1–2 on-site helpers during class
- Sufficient power tools to match student numbers
- Liability insurance coverage for both the event and property
Insurance & Liability
Star Hill Timberworks carries insurance for instruction and operations. Public class hosts are required to carry liability insurance that covers both the event and their property during the class. This includes ensuring coverage for all participants, helpers, and any activity related to the timber framing workshop on-site.
Optional Star Hill Tooling Available
In addition to the required Layout System, hosts may choose to purchase—at retail or discounted rates depending on class format—hand-forged chisels, marking knives, custom sheaths, and other specialty tools.
What You’ll Get
- Five full days of expert instruction in traditional timber framing
- Pre-class consultation (tools, plans, workspace)
- Marketing and prep consultation (public classes)
- A rare, community-building, hands-on experience
Location Requirements
- Warm winter climate (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, etc.)
- Scenic, peaceful setting with space to explore
- Covered workspace, dog-friendly accommodations
How to Apply
Fill out the form below, or email us at jon@starhilltimberworks.com
Proposal Window: June 1–30, 2025
Selections Announced: By August 31, 2025
Finalists will be invited to a brief video interview to confirm fit.
