{"id":23,"date":"2024-12-04T17:59:24","date_gmt":"2024-12-04T17:59:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/?page_id=23"},"modified":"2025-02-10T15:22:28","modified_gmt":"2025-02-10T20:22:28","slug":"photo-album","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/photo-album\/","title":{"rendered":"PHOTO ALBUM"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><h1>\n\t\t\tA Photo Gallery of Some Past Projects\n\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t<br>\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tTimber Frame pavilion &#8211; Vienna, Ohio &#8211; 20&#8217;x 36&#8242;, kingpost trussed, Cherry timbers.\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>My 4th kingpost timber frame truss. While the KP joinery is similar to my previous KP trusses and is patterned after the truss found in the Christ Episcopal Church in Shrewsbury, NJ built between1769-74, this one more resembles that truss in basic design in the fact that this truss also employs a raised bottom chord (tie beam). Once again, Gary Clower of Vienna, Ohio did a fantastic job with the design and engineering of this framework. And I cannot be more grateful to the owner of this beautiful pavilion, Ryan Murphy, who was so extremely helpful in every phase of this project, and so very patient &amp; understanding during some delays when 8 x12 x 36&#8242; cherry timbers were hard to come by. This frame features twin opposing white oak wedges which assist in securing the 3&#8243; x 13&#8243; thru-tenons on the KP to tie beam joinery, decorative stop-chamfers on all timbers, and a hand-planed and sanded timber finish.<em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c1.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"Ryan used Heritage Natural Finish on the timbers.h\" data-caption=\"Ryan used Heritage Natural Finish on the timbers.h\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c1.webp\" alt=\"Wooden pergola under construction on house.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1000\" height=\"700\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1000\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"700\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c2.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"My 4th kingpost truss! I was very happy with the very tight-fitting joinery.\" data-caption=\"My 4th kingpost truss! I was very happy with the very tight-fitting joinery.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c2.webp\" alt=\"Wooden pergola structure under blue sky.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1000\" height=\"700\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1000\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"700\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c3.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title='Look closely and see the \"stop-chamfer\" on all the timbers.' data-caption='Look closely and see the \"stop-chamfer\" on all the timbers.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c3.webp\" alt=\"Wooden pergola beams and joints.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1000\" height=\"700\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1000\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"700\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c5.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"Roof purlins cantilever the front truss by 6'.\" data-caption=\"Roof purlins cantilever the front truss by 6'.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c5.webp\" alt=\"Wooden pergola under construction.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1000\" height=\"700\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1000\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"700\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c5-1.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"The crew from JCM Timberworks in Killbuck, Ohio raised this frame over a 2 day period.\" data-caption=\"The crew from JCM Timberworks in Killbuck, Ohio raised this frame over a 2 day period.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c5-1.webp\" alt=\"Wooden pergola attached to house.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1000\" height=\"700\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1000\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"700\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c6.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"36' truss span is the largest I have done.\" data-caption=\"36' truss span is the largest I have done.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c6.webp\" alt=\"Wooden pergola under construction on house.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1000\" height=\"700\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1000\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"700\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c7.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"Frame will be getting a tin roof.\" data-caption=\"Frame will be getting a tin roof.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/c7.webp\" alt=\"Wooden pergola under construction on house.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1000\" height=\"700\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1000\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"700\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\t16&#8242; x 24&#8242; Barn, Full Loft, 2 Side Porches @ 12&#8242; x 24&#8242; &#8211; Round Hill, Virginia\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>Eastern white pine timbers were used in the framing of this barn for client Michael Pruitt, who while busy with his own career, still found the time and energy to do all the foundation stonework, assemble and raise this frame basically by himself (with superb\/detailed instructions by me :), hang the barn doors, install the siding &amp; windows, and stain the timbers. I have worked with many clients over the years, and Michael is at or near the top of the &#8220;most-enjoyable-clientto-work-with&#8221; list! He truly had a deep appreciation for traditional mortise\/tenon\/pegged timber joinery and the handcrafting\/hand-tooling that went into his barn, as well as our mutual love for dogs! This frame is an enlarged version of the &#8220;Sobon&#8221; frame seen way at the bottom of this page and features a full loft (16&#8217;x24&#8242;), doorways on both gable and eave sides framed in timbers, and 2 timbered side porches @ 12&#8242; x 24&#8242;.<em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image<\/em><\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f134bbd76eeb001ed1a8e35541d6cb31-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f134bbd76eeb001ed1a8e35541d6cb31\" data-caption=\"Doors framed in timbers on both gable ends.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f134bbd76eeb001ed1a8e35541d6cb31-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built in the woods.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/835fd64c8125b7b20f60e1d65d25ab99.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"835fd64c8125b7b20f60e1d65d25ab99\" data-caption=\"Michael raised this frame himself!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/835fd64c8125b7b20f60e1d65d25ab99.jpg\" alt=\"A building being built with wooden beams and scaffolding.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1440\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1440\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/92dc2f11676f8cc631ca115fe31e75cf-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"92dc2f11676f8cc631ca115fe31e75cf\" data-caption=\"Loft joists spanned gable to gable.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/92dc2f11676f8cc631ca115fe31e75cf-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built with green tarp.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/788fdd8b165ca66f2f4aabae95b183c5.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"788fdd8b165ca66f2f4aabae95b183c5\" data-caption=\"One of two 12'x 24' timber framed side porches. Michael also did all the foundation stone work!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/788fdd8b165ca66f2f4aabae95b183c5.jpg\" alt=\"A barn with a shed and construction equipment in the background.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"249\" height=\"249\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"249\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"249\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6c4ffa6ec75efdc65efda0dc5e19234c-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"6c4ffa6ec75efdc65efda0dc5e19234c\" data-caption='6x8 rafters with 14\" tails and step-lapped seats.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6c4ffa6ec75efdc65efda0dc5e19234c-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A pile of wood in a room with windows.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1440\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1440\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/756173237db19a954279c55e3fe748b0.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"756173237db19a954279c55e3fe748b0\" data-caption=\"Almost completed cabin. I built Z-brace barn-style doors for all 4 sides of the cabin.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/756173237db19a954279c55e3fe748b0.jpg\" alt=\"A barn with a large clock on the side of it.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tWestern Red Cedar Dovetail Log Sauna &#8211; Peru, Illinois\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>This little 8&#8242; x 8&#8242; log sauna house was crafted with high insulation in mind, so 8&#8243; thick red cedar wall logs were used. Due to the high interior temps that will be generated, synthetic chinking on the interior would not have worked. So, each interior chink space was custom-fitted with &#8220;chinkboards&#8221; that covered the chink gap and each gap will be fitted with rockwool insulation, moisture resistant and able to withstand the high interior temps. The door was also constructed of western red cedar and is 5&#8243; thick and filled with 4&#8243; of rockwool insulation. As always in my frames, traditional timber joinery was employed, here in the roof timbers with step-lap rafter seats &amp; pegged &#8216;tongue\/fork&#8221; at the peak. Pictured is the pre-assembly I did in my yard to ensure all joinery fit properly, as the owner will be assembling the structure in the spring of 2022.<em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image<\/em><\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/5c0a58dbac4c7e0351db64da225a53d8-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"5c0a58dbac4c7e0351db64da225a53d8\" data-caption=\"Log gable ends flank the front &amp; back. Step-lap rafter seats in the top plates will carry rafter pairs to frame nice overhangs front &amp; back.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/5c0a58dbac4c7e0351db64da225a53d8-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built with a tool in the middle of it.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ce56f8dca92ec2278d1608ebe8d59de6-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"ce56f8dca92ec2278d1608ebe8d59de6\" data-caption=\"Extended top plates provide 2' of overhang on the gable ends. Scoobs relaxing in the shade!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ce56f8dca92ec2278d1608ebe8d59de6-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built in the grass.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f5a358f1de84b63b7009d959b767b10d-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f5a358f1de84b63b7009d959b767b10d\" data-caption=\"Interior of sauna. Cedar boards cover the lateral chink spaces.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f5a358f1de84b63b7009d959b767b10d-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden door in the corner of a room.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/793ecc148170a08d5d35d518fe99aaef-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"793ecc148170a08d5d35d518fe99aaef\" data-caption=\"4x8 Red cedar rafters joined with tongue\/fork joinery and pegged with white oak pegs. .\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/793ecc148170a08d5d35d518fe99aaef-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure that is being built.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1f6b2164f66fa916b115e1ad90859635-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"1f6b2164f66fa916b115e1ad90859635\" data-caption=\"Image 5\/6\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1f6b2164f66fa916b115e1ad90859635-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with a door open and some wood shavings on the side.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/c70150763c6c789f8b61d849d2bf3cdb-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"c70150763c6c789f8b61d849d2bf3cdb\" data-caption=\"2x4 cedar splined into log ends and then fastened to the 2x8 door jambs allow the logs to settle around the door.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/c70150763c6c789f8b61d849d2bf3cdb-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A shadow of an arrow on the side of a building.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tHexagon, Dovetail-cornered 30&#8242; Log Horse Barn in Jenks, Oklahoma\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>This will be known as the &#8220;Five Oaks Event Center Horse Barn&#8221;. A grand 3-story structure of which I was honored and blessed to be chosen to fabricate the log walls, which featured hand- peeled white pine logs (bandmill-sawn on 2 faces) and handcrafted dovetail corner notches. This project proved to be a very challenging project in regard to the layout and cutting of the dovetail corner joinery, which deviated from their conventional 90 degree corners and now skewed to120 degree (inside) and 60 degree (outside) angles, and resulted in many hours of layout and fitting gymnastics to get the desired results of mating surfaces and tight fitting dovetail corner joints. But after much head-scratching and fiddling with these new angles on some leftover pieces from a past project, dovetail joinery and some trial fitting progressed very smoothly in the shop.Below are a few pictures of a trial set-up I did in my shop (with some of the shorter logs) to check the fit of the dovetails. The log barn went together beautifully just before Christmas 2020!<em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image<\/em><\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Five-Oaks-Event-Center-Horse-Barn.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"Five Oaks Event Center Horse Barn\" data-caption=\"Five Oaks Event Center Horse Barn\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Five-Oaks-Event-Center-Horse-Barn.jpg\" alt=\"A drawing of two different sections of a building.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Trial-assembly-of-intersecting-walls.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"Trial assembly of intersecting walls.\" data-caption=\"Trial assembly of intersecting walls.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Trial-assembly-of-intersecting-walls.jpg\" alt=\"A pile of wood shavings in the middle of a room.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b4f0e581081bfd3cbe14e4d1eacf544f.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b4f0e581081bfd3cbe14e4d1eacf544f\" data-caption='8\" thick logs retain natural contour of tree.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b4f0e581081bfd3cbe14e4d1eacf544f.jpg\" alt=\"A pile of wood that is stacked on top of each other.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/41e7f44632a42925d5f7185c4de5ea9c.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"41e7f44632a42925d5f7185c4de5ea9c\" data-caption=\"Finished log showing dovetail notch, gasket groove, and blocking flats.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/41e7f44632a42925d5f7185c4de5ea9c.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden bench in the middle of a pile of wood.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/e00a2945abdcb49d332d7a4660dd8f8b.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"e00a2945abdcb49d332d7a4660dd8f8b\" data-caption=\"Drone view.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/e00a2945abdcb49d332d7a4660dd8f8b.jpg\" alt=\"A building site with trees in the background\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"540\" height=\"960\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"540\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"960\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6cfcb051c561408867714e93237528df.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"6cfcb051c561408867714e93237528df\" data-caption=\"Hexagonal dovetail corners. Nice &amp; tight!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6cfcb051c561408867714e93237528df.jpg\" alt=\"A building with many wooden blocks on the side of it.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"720\" height=\"960\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"720\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"960\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8a679f80ea0772ea9a78c29e0ca700e4.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"8a679f80ea0772ea9a78c29e0ca700e4\" data-caption=\"Horses to be looking out these windows come spring.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8a679f80ea0772ea9a78c29e0ca700e4.jpg\" alt=\"A log cabin with windows and dirt ground\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"800\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"600\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6b552f0f56de34d0ccfdac2414108b5f-rotated.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"6b552f0f56de34d0ccfdac2414108b5f\" data-caption=\"Almost finished! Horse barn barn below, apartment above!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6b552f0f56de34d0ccfdac2414108b5f-rotated.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden house with a tractor parked in front of it.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"810\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tWilliamsfield, Ohio &#8211; 18&#8242; x 20&#8242; Dovetail Log Cabin \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tA historic re-build of a circa 1800 log structure.\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>This structure was originally located in Carroll County, Ohio, as a v-notched 26&#8242; x 36&#8242; 2-story log house, purchased and dis-assembled some years ago, and has long been the dream of the owner, Lynn Peskoran to have it re-erected on her lot in Williamsfield, Ohio. Lynn has put an enormous amount of work, both physical and mental, into this re-build. While not completely finished or re-erected as of winter 2018, it has been tremendously rewarding for me to play a part in helping her to see her dream realized.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fd604a813be4c30e0caa71778c68b900.jpg\" alt=\"A advertisement for the new timberman 's saw.\" itemprop=\"image\" height=\"319\" width=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fd604a813be4c30e0caa71778c68b900.jpg 450w, https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fd604a813be4c30e0caa71778c68b900-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" onerror=\"this.style.display='none'\">\n\t<p>Much handwork was involved using both the axe and drawknife in the removal of rotted sapwood from the logs (along with dodging and\/or removing the many nails that had accumulated in a 220 yr old structure). New dovetail notches were cut on fresh log ends to replace the original steeple, or &#8220;v&#8221;-notches on the white oak wall logs. Due to various levels of decay in some of the logs that had to be cut out, the re-build will yield a smaller 2-story, 18&#8242; x 20&#8242; cabin with a full 2nd floor, from what was once a 26&#8242; x 36&#8242; two-story log structure.<\/p>\n<p>I did a partial trial assembly this summer, simply to reaffirm that actual notch heights matched up with the drawings and to test-fit a few notches. I will post updates and new photos as this project heads towards completion.<\/p>\n<p>UPDATE: Unfortunately, this project is still in storage and has hit a few snags regarding structure installation. Hopefully the client can see her dream come to fruition soon.<\/p>\n<p><em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image<\/em><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a4971931805e8276a61eb2ce5563b45f.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"a4971931805e8276a61eb2ce5563b45f\" data-caption=\"Virtually every old log had bands of sapwood that required removal.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a4971931805e8276a61eb2ce5563b45f.jpg\" alt=\"A large piece of wood is being worked on.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/70ec5edfa59384f7ddee6ff11d3d5fbb.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"70ec5edfa59384f7ddee6ff11d3d5fbb\" data-caption=\"Initial axe-work removing old sapwood.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/70ec5edfa59384f7ddee6ff11d3d5fbb.jpg\" alt=\"A man is working on wood in a workshop.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/7d35c207a4897f026870e3373fa746a9.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"7d35c207a4897f026870e3373fa746a9\" data-caption='Smoothing out the rough axe work with a large 12\" drawknife.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/7d35c207a4897f026870e3373fa746a9.jpg\" alt=\"A man in black shirt holding wood near wooden structure.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/955ac80aba469f31d10886dce4d0b3c8.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"955ac80aba469f31d10886dce4d0b3c8\" data-caption=\"Most of the logs cleaned-up pretty good.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/955ac80aba469f31d10886dce4d0b3c8.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden beam sitting on top of a floor.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8fdc1b67b62c1688862e3c3e0c9bb9b3.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"8fdc1b67b62c1688862e3c3e0c9bb9b3\" data-caption=\"&quot;Every picture tells a story don't it?&quot;...and so do these old logs. These white oaks grew in very dense forest, as evidenced by the almost imperceptible closeness of the growth rings, most being only 1\/32&quot; apart, and especially in the tree's later years as the surrounding forest grew even more dense and growth really slowed. Virtually all these logs avg about 28-32 rings per inch, indicating that they were between 200-250 yrs old... when they were cut down in 1800! Pretty cool!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8fdc1b67b62c1688862e3c3e0c9bb9b3.jpg\" alt=\"A close up of the wood grain on a piece of wood.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/47f37c3a5ee0c3ddfa91b29933cbdcdb.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"47f37c3a5ee0c3ddfa91b29933cbdcdb\" data-caption=\"Dovetail tenon that locks the sill-logs together.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/47f37c3a5ee0c3ddfa91b29933cbdcdb.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden beam with some wood pieces on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/c799e1d11c43c74797da1973fd070d22.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"c799e1d11c43c74797da1973fd070d22\" data-caption=\"Corresponding dovetail mortise in adjacent sill-log.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/c799e1d11c43c74797da1973fd070d22.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with holes in it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a5996536b193f82fac48a7a9088beeab.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"a5996536b193f82fac48a7a9088beeab\" data-caption=\"Completed dovetail m&amp;t in sill-logs, locking all 4 base-course logs together.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a5996536b193f82fac48a7a9088beeab.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden beam sitting on top of grass.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fff9473daf53c9cb1df4db5479dc298e.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"fff9473daf53c9cb1df4db5479dc298e\" data-caption=\"Massive wall logs all around, typically on the lower courses.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fff9473daf53c9cb1df4db5479dc298e.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden fence in the middle of a field.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/189642bfcb4d4f07a5de0db315f16a4b.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"189642bfcb4d4f07a5de0db315f16a4b\" data-caption=\"The original intent was to attempt (as much as possible) to match the logs new location with their original orientation. I was able to do that to some extent, but other factors soon dictated that I use the best quality log with the required face height where I needed it most.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/189642bfcb4d4f07a5de0db315f16a4b.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden fence with some wood posts and boards\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/c32a27c897b43592849342e1522cfb91.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"c32a27c897b43592849342e1522cfb91\" data-caption='This structure will receive angle-iron splined window\/door jambs, along with 1-1\/4\" oak alignment pinning all courses together.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/c32a27c897b43592849342e1522cfb91.jpg\" alt=\"A group of wooden posts in the grass.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/11debfcbcb74cc2dbf693e62782246a4.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"11debfcbcb74cc2dbf693e62782246a4\" data-caption=\"Emseal gaskets (installed at final assembly) at the inside notch face, and coupled with the chinking, will seal against air infiltration.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/11debfcbcb74cc2dbf693e62782246a4.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with some wood planks on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tBorth Lake &#8211; Antigo, Wisconsin 20&#8242; x 26&#8242; Dovetail Log Cabin \n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>My first dovetailed log structure in the summer of 2015. I&#8217;ve had such a strong interest in dovetail log building for many years, and this summer I finally got the opportunity to build one, to craft the log joinery and then do a trial assembly of the log walls in my yard. This 20&#8242; x 26&#8242; lakeside cabin will sport a partial wrap-around porch (owner-built), and a 13&#8242; x 20&#8242; timber framed loft. The client chose to forego a heavy timbered roof system and instead will have a conventionally framed roof. This project also featured massive 8&#8243; x 12&#8243; eastern white pine wall logs, (with a few of the longer ones sawn from hemlock), with handcrafted dovetail joinery locking the walls together. On the inside of all corner notches are Emseal gaskets, placed in a hidden vertical groove, preventing any air infiltration. Octagonal wall-alignment pins, cut from air-dried (10 yrs) oak planks, 1-1\/4&#8243; in diameter and 20&#8243; long, are placed at approximately 4&#8242; intervals along the log walls. These stout pins provide lateral stability to short wall sections and aid in keeping long courses in line.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a1e7f6fe8fbfaf945ac51d1489ed83a6.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with trees in the background.\" itemprop=\"image\" height=\"354\" width=\"472\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a1e7f6fe8fbfaf945ac51d1489ed83a6.jpg 472w, https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a1e7f6fe8fbfaf945ac51d1489ed83a6-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 472px) 100vw, 472px\" onerror=\"this.style.display='none'\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLog walls up on a beautiful fall day in Wisconsin.\n\t<p>As this project gradually began to take shape, I became much more aware of the many small, but extremely vital details that comprise a correctly and well-built dovetail log structure. In that regard, I was very blessed to have come in contact with two legends in the world of dovetail log building, Higgs Murphy (Alberta, Canada), and Dan Somerfield (Sevierville, TN). I am so grateful for all the time these two fine gentlemen spent sharing their vast knowledge and prior building experiences with me!<\/p>\n<p>The pictures of the log cabin shown below illustrate much of the hand-tool crafting of the log joinery, the daily goings-on that take place in my shop, and also the trial assembly I did here in my yard. The client, Tim Ebert, will be erecting the structure himself, doing all the chinking, and also the vast majority of all finish work.<\/p>\n\t<p>This project began as a long-distance building relationship between Tim and I, with emails and phone calls, but I was a bit fearful that his log cabin would come to a completion without us ever having actually met. But in mid-August, Tim and his wife Kim made the 12 hr drive over here to N.E.Ohio! It was great to finally meet them, and I am so grateful that they took the time to do that!<\/p>\n<p><em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image.<\/em><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/863eead8522fdd627dce43edf8ce4de3.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"863eead8522fdd627dce43edf8ce4de3\" data-caption=\"Unloading 26'ers from trailer - Some pushing, prying, lifting, mix in a fair amount of cussing, and my low-tech, knuckle-dragger approach to off-loading timbers works pretty good!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/863eead8522fdd627dce43edf8ce4de3.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden beam sitting on top of a floor.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/d48b6fc3e16181522e684bc4ab841621.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"d48b6fc3e16181522e684bc4ab841621\" data-caption=\"Layout Lines - Every dovetail notch is carefully laid out with the framing square and digital protractor.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/d48b6fc3e16181522e684bc4ab841621.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden block with some lines drawn on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/affb704e65434e5f9caa1041ae35583b.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"affb704e65434e5f9caa1041ae35583b\" data-caption=\"Pretty slick! - The slick is like a very large chisel, used strictly as a paring tool. I love the sound generated by the slicing away of thin shavings of pine.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/affb704e65434e5f9caa1041ae35583b.jpg\" alt=\"A man in blue shirt holding a wooden stick.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/26bb7a6baf841dfc00f3b04977ddb49b.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"26bb7a6baf841dfc00f3b04977ddb49b\" data-caption=\"Underside of bottom notch- Creating a slight hollow in the bottom notch assures a tight fit around the perimeter, helping to negate the effects of shrinkage or a convex check on the mating surface possibly pushing the notch apart. And in the background: Tyson manning his post!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/26bb7a6baf841dfc00f3b04977ddb49b.jpg\" alt=\"A black dog laying on top of a wooden table.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6d7df5861762a7acd058261c7ab78e9d.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"6d7df5861762a7acd058261c7ab78e9d\" data-caption=\"14 degree slope - There are no definitive notch angles in dovetail log building. I felt a 14 degree angle provided good locking geometry without creating too acute of an angle that could make that triangular piece of wood vulnerable to breaking off.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6d7df5861762a7acd058261c7ab78e9d.jpg\" alt=\"A wood plank with a ruler and a saw\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/5e95dbb27f4c5ba479dd5e1e5e1a2c44.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"5e95dbb27f4c5ba479dd5e1e5e1a2c44\" data-caption=\"Checking angles - Every notch is checked at multiple locations for accuracy.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/5e95dbb27f4c5ba479dd5e1e5e1a2c44.jpg\" alt=\"A man working on the floor of his home.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66\" data-caption=\"Dovetailed wall logs - slowly taking shape.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66.jpg\" alt=\"A room filled with lots of wooden beams.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/942cc958d177f9606b8b8b78637faea7.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"942cc958d177f9606b8b8b78637faea7\" data-caption=\"My beam wrench - One end is 12&quot; wide, the other 8&quot;. This sturdy little shop-made tool came in handy when turning 26' long 8 x 12 hemlock timbers weighing close to 875 lbs.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/942cc958d177f9606b8b8b78637faea7.jpg\" alt=\"A room with wooden floors and walls.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/c156f601b4a2ae6ec5ff2ea7ad4ff2f9.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"c156f601b4a2ae6ec5ff2ea7ad4ff2f9\" data-caption=\"Making relief cuts on upper notch with my big Disston #7.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/c156f601b4a2ae6ec5ff2ea7ad4ff2f9.jpg\" alt=\"A man using a hand saw to cut wood.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/752355623e1d88c34f4a2de790bed1f0.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"752355623e1d88c34f4a2de790bed1f0\" data-caption=\"Dovetail tenon on tie beam - This tie beam will span the 20' width of the cabin and carry loft joists. The dovetail tenon will be locked in-between a wall log above it and the one below it in matching dovetail mortises, as is shown in the next two photos.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/752355623e1d88c34f4a2de790bed1f0.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden bench with some wood shavings around it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fb8bf8678d5edaab46c6325815dfc545.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"fb8bf8678d5edaab46c6325815dfc545\" data-caption=\"Tie beam tenon &amp; lower half of mortise - The bottom half of the tenon will sit in this mortise, cut into the top of this wall log.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fb8bf8678d5edaab46c6325815dfc545.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden table with some blue trim on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/22cf90cebaba9b30b543066edcc037b3.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"22cf90cebaba9b30b543066edcc037b3\" data-caption=\"Upper half of tie beam mortise - This dovetail mortise is cut in the bottom &amp; side of a 26' wall log. It will be placed over the top half of the tenon, sandwiching the tie beam tenon between 2 log courses on the N &amp; S walls.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/22cf90cebaba9b30b543066edcc037b3.jpg\" alt=\"A room with wood walls and floors being built.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/48f627fdfe9260c8e61aaf8a60d1100e.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"48f627fdfe9260c8e61aaf8a60d1100e\" data-caption=\"My baby Goonie-girl...Her favorite place to lay, next to my shop.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/48f627fdfe9260c8e61aaf8a60d1100e.jpg\" alt=\"A dog laying on the grass in front of a fence.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a371d3c6dda1b248b20706eace516c63.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"a371d3c6dda1b248b20706eace516c63\" data-caption=\"Trial assembly of log walls at my yard.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a371d3c6dda1b248b20706eace516c63.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure made out of pallets in the grass.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/40b3559c85d1fe2d72900ab8a3c2d1ac.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"40b3559c85d1fe2d72900ab8a3c2d1ac\" data-caption=\"Nice tight fit!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/40b3559c85d1fe2d72900ab8a3c2d1ac.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden board with a spiral pattern on it.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66-2.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66 (2)\" data-caption=\"Taking shape in Wisconsin - Tim is allowing the wall logs to weather to a natural gray.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66-2.webp\" alt=\"A building site with trees in the background\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66-1.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66 (1)\" data-caption=\"Tim used scissor trusses for his roof framing.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66-1.webp\" alt=\"A log cabin being built with wood and rafters.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66\" data-caption=\"Long shadows of November - Enclosed &amp; ready for winter.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3badae045e6c49fdf061bcb8f1294a66.webp\" alt=\"A room filled with lots of wooden beams.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tGustavus, Ohio &#8211; Another Kingpost-Trussed Great-room Addition!\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>This frame is very similar to the previous one in size (a little longer @`24&#8217;wide x 34&#8242;-5&#8243; long) and design but differs in a few other areas. White oak was the specie chosen by the clients for their great- room addition and combined with the aesthetic additions of a hand-planed surface-finish to all timbers, and the decorative embellishment of a &#8220;chamfer&#8221; (about 1-1\/2&#8243; wide) applied to the corners on all major timbers, this hand-crafted timber frame is both rustic and elegant!<\/p>\n<p>The three historically inspired kingpost trusses (see reference below) once again define this design, with their massive 3&#8243; thick x 13&#8243; wide x 15&#8243; long thru-tenons penetrating the tie beams. As this is a critical tension joint within the framework, additional support for the 1-1\/2&#8243; pegs is supplied by two opposing hardwood wedges under the tie beams. These wedges are left a bit long and protrude beyond the 8&#8243; width of the tie beams, to provide a bit of &#8220;travel-room&#8221; to be pounded tighter as the tie beams shrink a bit in the ensuing years.<\/p>\n<p>The eight 8&#8243; x 12&#8243; wall-posts exhibit English Tying Joints, with the historically proven variant of this joint (a &#8220;cog&#8221; instead of a lap dovetail; see photo&#8217;s below) locking the top of the wall plates with the underside of the tie beams.<\/p>\n\t<p>I&#8217;ve been blessed to have come in contact with various professionals during the course of my projects where these individuals have made immeasurable contributions of time and talents in seeing these endeavors through to the end. Jim Wakefield (Wakefield Construction) wore many different hats during the design, fabrication, pre-assembly, and raising of this framework. Along with the client Ben Miller, who was so accommodating and was an immense help in many ways during the entire process, Jim (while functioning as GC on this project and also on the elaborate offices at the Miller farm), simply proved himself invaluable during the frame pre-assembly and then again on raising day. His skills, vision, patience, integrity and character played a major role in this frame turning out as beautiful as it did!<\/p>\n\t<p><em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image.<\/em><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3c5bfa6a46995246ebedf7f18072ed49.jpg\" alt=\"A living room with brown leather furniture and wood ceiling.\" itemprop=\"image\" height=\"322\" width=\"482\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3c5bfa6a46995246ebedf7f18072ed49.jpg 482w, https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/3c5bfa6a46995246ebedf7f18072ed49-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 482px) 100vw, 482px\" onerror=\"this.style.display='none'\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/79d79300a49072ca86efae0f2637578f.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"79d79300a49072ca86efae0f2637578f\" data-caption=\"First of 2 trailer-loads of 22,000 lbs of white oak timbers. Off-loaded by hand (not fun) &amp; separated &amp; stacked in shop (also not fun).\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/79d79300a49072ca86efae0f2637578f.jpg\" alt=\"A trailer with wood on it and a wooden building in the background.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d\" data-caption=\"Hand-planed timbers - Every timber in this frame was hand-planed using a 2-plane process: a 4-1\/2 doing the initial work of removing the rough-sawn finish, followed by the low-angle, bevel-up plane to smooth out the surface.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d.webp\" alt=\"A wooden structure with a large roof and a tree.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a4fa890190b100982f2485fc99293231.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"a4fa890190b100982f2485fc99293231\" data-caption=\"Lee Valley Veritas hand planes - As hand-planing is done on a diagonal across the timber, the process leaves very slight undulations on the timber surface, yet another representation of the handwork involved in a TRULY handcrafted timbered structure.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a4fa890190b100982f2485fc99293231.jpg\" alt=\"A couple of people are working on some wood\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cc16c7c49fd7f1d5aca6e6fbe0fdee96.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"cc16c7c49fd7f1d5aca6e6fbe0fdee96\" data-caption=\"Before &amp; After - One of 3 kingposts in the framework. Starting out as a raw 10 x 14 timber, and following about 30 hrs of sawing, boring, chiseling, &amp; planing, the almost-finished kingpost just needs the wedge mortise and peg holes bored.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cc16c7c49fd7f1d5aca6e6fbe0fdee96.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden bench in the middle of construction.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b99bd5ad2d711b0b6155528c465ca1d3.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b99bd5ad2d711b0b6155528c465ca1d3\" data-caption=\"Finished wall posts, part of the English Tying Joint arrangement, with tenons at different heights &amp; perpendicular to one another.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b99bd5ad2d711b0b6155528c465ca1d3.jpg\" alt=\"A bunch of wooden benches in a room\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/32eb8cd148080d72a716d5da9f84a64a.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"32eb8cd148080d72a716d5da9f84a64a\" data-caption=\"Beautiful view looking out the back of my shop.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/32eb8cd148080d72a716d5da9f84a64a.jpg\" alt=\"A view of a field from inside a barn.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6e41ad9624806ec9001bb3030d23d6a2.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"6e41ad9624806ec9001bb3030d23d6a2\" data-caption=\"Slave-ing away over a hot chisel! Beating end-grain in one of many mortises.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/6e41ad9624806ec9001bb3030d23d6a2.jpg\" alt=\"A man in blue shirt using a pair of scissors.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9cd4f06ba19003e2c816905a152f894c.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"9cd4f06ba19003e2c816905a152f894c\" data-caption=\"Disassembled 34' top plate. LOTS of joinery(including the scarf) in these wall plates.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9cd4f06ba19003e2c816905a152f894c.jpg\" alt=\"A bench in the middle of a room with wood shavings.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d-2.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d (2)\" data-caption=\"Tyson the Dog. My little shop buddy!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d-2.webp\" alt=\"A black dog sitting on top of a wooden floor.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ab8030df0ee7fee2b3eac8bc4d7d771f.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"ab8030df0ee7fee2b3eac8bc4d7d771f\" data-caption='Hogging out wood with my Millers Falls boring machine. With a sharp auger bit, it handled the 2\" mortise holes in the white oak pretty easily.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ab8030df0ee7fee2b3eac8bc4d7d771f.jpg\" alt=\"A man in blue shirt and shorts working on wooden structure.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/7c8db2488ca63d2f2d905c9379a84c33.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"7c8db2488ca63d2f2d905c9379a84c33\" data-caption=\"The long-angled cuts @ rafter feet where they tenon into the tie beams.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/7c8db2488ca63d2f2d905c9379a84c33.jpg\" alt=\"A pile of wood in the middle of construction.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/32111de719a8945b0d6aaeeaa047546c.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"32111de719a8945b0d6aaeeaa047546c\" data-caption=\"Fearless Jim Wakefield plumbing first truss and setting brace-board.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/32111de719a8945b0d6aaeeaa047546c.jpg\" alt=\"A man working on the roof of a house.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b3313369cb4a42d6da80312546180ab1.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b3313369cb4a42d6da80312546180ab1\" data-caption=\"Jim Wakefield &amp; Ben Miller up top doing the serious work of setting purlins. And the ground-guy is me....seems I was busy doing something-close-to-nothing, but different from the day before!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b3313369cb4a42d6da80312546180ab1.jpg\" alt=\"A man standing on top of a wooden structure.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/471fe75996f803a8ae131bf7a16c23aa.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"471fe75996f803a8ae131bf7a16c23aa\" data-caption=\"With the help of both the client Ben Miller &amp; the GC Jim Wakefield, frame pre-assembly took only 8 hrs, and the raising was completed in a shockingly fast 2-1\/2 hrs!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/471fe75996f803a8ae131bf7a16c23aa.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built in the dirt.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a8ba181e77a88ffc6304dc36f6cfc4ce.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"a8ba181e77a88ffc6304dc36f6cfc4ce\" data-caption=\"Wedged thru-tenon - These hardwood wedges preform a vital task in assisting the pegs in holding up the tie beam in this critical tension joint within the kingpost truss arrangement.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/a8ba181e77a88ffc6304dc36f6cfc4ce.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with a sky background\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d\" data-caption=\"This gable wall will frame the fireplace.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with a large roof and a tree.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b929c7c80abdba6ca93ace3fbc8a9f49.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b929c7c80abdba6ca93ace3fbc8a9f49\" data-caption=\"Clients used a clear, oil-based stain (Penefin) to highlight the grain of the white oak timbers.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b929c7c80abdba6ca93ace3fbc8a9f49.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with a roof and beams.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d-1.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d (1)\" data-caption=\"Special thanks to Ben Miller for sharing these photos of his family's beautiful new addition!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d-1.webp\" alt=\"A living room with wood floors and a fireplace.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tHartford, Ohio &#8211; Kingpost-Trussed Great Room Addition\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>This 24&#8242; x 32&#8242; timber frame is a &#8220;great room&#8221; addition to an existing house. It is framed entirely in eastern white pine and features an impressive principal rafter &amp; purlin roof system, along with the focal point of the framework, the three eye-catching kingpost trusses that were inspired by structural elements of the king post trusses found in St. Johns Church (1807), Portsmouth, NH, and also Christ Episcopal Church (1769-74), Shrewsbury, New Jersey. In keeping with historically based joinery, the joint chosen for the post\/plate\/tie beam interface is a slight variation of the traditional English Tying Joint, which employed a lapped dovetail joint where the tie beam engages with the top plate. Gary Clower (frame designer) &amp; I both felt that a slight modification of the standard ETJ, where the dovetail is replaced with a &#8220;cogged&#8221; joint and of which an example was found on a 1770&#8217;s barn in Adams, Mass was an effective, historically proven alternative. There are eight such joints in the main frame.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fa77d129cd1bdfd18838e57cdabe8bcb.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure in the middle of a forest.\" itemprop=\"image\" height=\"338\" width=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fa77d129cd1bdfd18838e57cdabe8bcb.jpg 450w, https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fa77d129cd1bdfd18838e57cdabe8bcb-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" title=\"fa77d129cd1bdfd18838e57cdabe8bcb\" onerror=\"this.style.display='none'\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEnglish Tying Joint, where post, tie beam, &amp; continuous top plate converge.\n\t<p>Leading into the great room addition is a 10&#8242; x 12&#8242; covered entryway that is open on the sides and framed with rot-resistant, beautiful black cherry timbers. This entryway also features a roof system of decorative kingpost trusses, and the four posts are once again joined with the top plates and tie beams with traditional English Tying Joints. The clients wanted to maintain a rustic look throughout the framework, and opted to leave all timbers with their original rough-sawn appearance.<\/p>\n<p>A very special mention goes to Gary Clower, of Vienna, Ohio, who was the principal designer of the framework, produced great shop-drawings for me to work from, and then gave so freely of his time during those hot days of frame pre-assembly and then the raising. Also, a big thanks to John &amp; Sarah Woodall for their generous time-contribution and tremendous help on raising day. This beautiful frame could not have been &#8220;born&#8221; without you all!!<\/p>\n\t<p>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/043045b61ff289295a015b73799f94e5.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"043045b61ff289295a015b73799f94e5\" data-caption=\"Rafter foot tenons - These 8 x 10 principal rafters tenon into the tie beams, forming a structurally sound framework.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/043045b61ff289295a015b73799f94e5.jpg\" alt=\"A pile of wood in a warehouse with many pieces.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f1253753c2220a3bf39fb083f9575a63.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f1253753c2220a3bf39fb083f9575a63\" data-caption=\"Eight finished posts showing the twin perpendicular tenons symbolic of English Tying Joint arrangments, with finished kingposts on top.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f1253753c2220a3bf39fb083f9575a63.jpg\" alt=\"A pile of wood that is stacked on top of each other.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2bc9e40b300b50e7aef0a0e7bb339778.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"2bc9e40b300b50e7aef0a0e7bb339778\" data-caption=\"Finished kingposts - The central, vertical member in the truss.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2bc9e40b300b50e7aef0a0e7bb339778.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden table with some wood planks on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8a80bef44dbad47d3412d45fa08fa728.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"8a80bef44dbad47d3412d45fa08fa728\" data-caption=\"Finished tie beams - These 8 x 10 x 24'ers are the major horizontal members in the kingpost truss arrangement.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8a80bef44dbad47d3412d45fa08fa728.jpg\" alt=\"A large wooden bench in the middle of construction.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/753bcf61904010d4ff42ddc583c109b8.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"753bcf61904010d4ff42ddc583c109b8\" data-caption=\"The kingposts and their connections to the tie beam are critical, as the kp's are actually holding up the ties at their mid-span.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/753bcf61904010d4ff42ddc583c109b8.jpg\" alt=\"A pile of wood that is being made.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d-1-1.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d (1)\" data-caption=\"Tyson- very much at home in the soft pine shavings.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d-1-1.webp\" alt=\"A living room with wood floors and a fireplace.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/bdcd0ef7bdbb74a15265d7c6f3cbef67.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"bdcd0ef7bdbb74a15265d7c6f3cbef67\" data-caption='Top plate with \"cog\", which refers to that rectangular section of wood at front of plate that locks tie in place.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/bdcd0ef7bdbb74a15265d7c6f3cbef67.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden bench with some wood pieces sticking out of it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1440\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1440\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cefaff92d3a66637b2c6be29341be3b9.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"cefaff92d3a66637b2c6be29341be3b9\" data-caption=\"Base of truss on deck at pre-assembly.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/cefaff92d3a66637b2c6be29341be3b9.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden bench with some wood pieces missing.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1440\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1440\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/4296e39560b1fc2079707239931cf346.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"4296e39560b1fc2079707239931cf346\" data-caption='\"Flying-in\" the first truss.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/4296e39560b1fc2079707239931cf346.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being lifted into the air.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/44dd4c15efadb5d4299a6ab74a946bc6.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"44dd4c15efadb5d4299a6ab74a946bc6\" data-caption=\"Gary Clower hard at work! - Gary not only designed the framework, but also gave so generously of his time throughout all phases of the project.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/44dd4c15efadb5d4299a6ab74a946bc6.jpg\" alt=\"A man measuring the roof rafter of a house.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1440\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1440\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8c606fdd600b8bab3fcf41c179d92baf.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"8c606fdd600b8bab3fcf41c179d92baf\" data-caption=\"Scarf-joint on 32' top plate.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/8c606fdd600b8bab3fcf41c179d92baf.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with a tree in the background.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/12504d21f035eedce8eb9d6000a24f3a.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"12504d21f035eedce8eb9d6000a24f3a\" data-caption='Gable-end ETJ- a view of the \" cog\" (just to the left of the peg), an additional locking measure to secure the tie beam in place.' data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/12504d21f035eedce8eb9d6000a24f3a.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built with some people standing around.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/558242151680c5c9680bcc532a6a6984.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"558242151680c5c9680bcc532a6a6984\" data-caption=\"John Woodall shaving a tenon.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/558242151680c5c9680bcc532a6a6984.jpg\" alt=\"A man working on the side of a building.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1440\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1440\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/34036c6677aebf7b545912c0ba45444e.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"34036c6677aebf7b545912c0ba45444e\" data-caption=\"Finished frame- with the help of Gary &amp; John, the frame was raised in only 3 hrs!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/34036c6677aebf7b545912c0ba45444e.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built in the yard.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fe55381bd17da8639c5ee852dc93818d.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"fe55381bd17da8639c5ee852dc93818d\" data-caption=\"T&amp;G pine under SIP panels for the roof.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/fe55381bd17da8639c5ee852dc93818d.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure with beams and rafters in it.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d-3.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d\" data-caption=\"Best little buddy Domey!- Tyson's brother. Not in the shop much, he'd rather be relaxing in the house, or going for car rides.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/f141b3a2108a4c21e4d45d460f13421d-3.webp\" alt=\"A wooden structure with a large roof and a tree.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/7527d26c9e3641337dfc2bb93772e273.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"7527d26c9e3641337dfc2bb93772e273\" data-caption=\"Entryway framed in black cherry timbers.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/7527d26c9e3641337dfc2bb93772e273.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built in front of a house.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1446\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1446\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/23b26651647ab2ffb8b02a3835e79933.jpg\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"23b26651647ab2ffb8b02a3835e79933\" data-caption=\"The trusses on this 10'l x 12'w entryway share many of the same historical framing elements as in the main frame.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/23b26651647ab2ffb8b02a3835e79933.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden structure being built with a ladder.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"1447\" height=\"1080\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"1447\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"1080\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tColumbiania County, Ohio &#8211; 24&#8242; x 32&#8242; Gambrel House Frame\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>The photos below are of a scale model that I built for this frame. And other than the few joinery pictures shown, these are, unfortunately, the only photos I have of this project.<\/p>\n<p>This 24&#8217;w x 32&#8217;l gambrel-roofed house frame required close to 750 mortise &amp; tenon joints, including 8 scarf joints, and was crafted in a variety of hardwood species, including yellow poplar, white oak, red oak, and hickory. The gambrel-style roof was chosen to give maximum headroom in the loft while standing a minimal distance from the sidewall. Other design elements include a 16&#8242; x 24&#8242; upstairs sleeping loft, an open floor plan downstairs, and an 8&#8242; x 32&#8242; timber framed porch that features the same pegged, mortise &amp; tenon wooden joinery as the main framework. This porch was framed in rot-resistant white oak and spans the front of the house.<\/p>\n<p>Since the clients had this frame built over a full basement, they chose to have their floor system framed with large timbers as opposed to conventional stick-framing. The timber framed floor system was comprised of timber sill beams, and a massive posted-&amp;-braced 10&#8243; x 10&#8243; x 32&#8242; red oak sill girder, from which 4&#8243; x 7&#8243; hickory floor joists joined the sills. The clients took a very active role in their house project and did a great job in designing the exposed timber framed stair-box that leads to the upstairs loft.<\/p>\n<p><em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image.<\/em><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-1.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999 (1)\" data-caption=\"Scale model of Gambrel frame - I just played around with the surroundings to try and make it look real.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-1.webp\" alt=\"A wooden table with some pieces of wood on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"640\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"480\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-4.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999 (4)\" data-caption=\"Working outside! My shop had not been built yet. Timbers shielded from the sun...sort-of.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-4.webp\" alt=\"A large tree is in the background of this picture.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"640\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"480\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-5.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999 (5)\" data-caption=\"Very rustic design. Open floor plan with timbers everywhere.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-5.webp\" alt=\"A wooden structure that is being built.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"640\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"480\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-2.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999 (2)\" data-caption=\"Halved &amp; bladed scarf in 32' red oak plate. Looks rather ugly, but the fit was super-tight &amp; it cleaned up nicely later.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-2.webp\" alt=\"A wooden table with some pieces of wood on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"640\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"480\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-3.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999 (3)\" data-caption=\"Rear-view, with a good look at the staircase, which the client, Jim Hale designed!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999-3.webp\" alt=\"A wooden table with some pieces of wood on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"640\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"480\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999\" data-caption=\"Another halved &amp; bladed scarf, this one with joist pockets, as this girder carried the floor joists in the basement floor system.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/24cd9e0af5f26bb52c4ad1a2376bb999.webp\" alt=\"A wooden table with some pieces of wood on it\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"640\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"480\">\n\t\t<h2>\n\t\t\tHartford, Ohio &#8211; Backyard Cabin\n\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<p>This 12&#8242; x 16&#8242; cabin was my first timber frame project, started back in 2003. A very traditional design with a background rooted in 19th century Shaker history, it was the defining influence in shaping my building philosophy. Many other timber framers began their careers using this frame as a starter project, and I am no different. The first timber frame book I picked up, authored by renowned timber frame traditionalist Jack Sobon, featured working drawings of this frame, and guided by Sobon&#8217;s historical perspective on remaining faithful to the hand-tools, joinery and designs of our timber framing past, well, I knew which direction I was headed.<\/p>\n<p>This stout frame was crafted entirely in hardwood, with hickory, beech, hard maple &amp; white oak being the primary species. Its footprint is small enough to fit in most backyards without being to obtrusive, and this frame would function nicely as a wood-working shop, an art studio, a garden shed, or even a rock-solid playhouse\/clubhouse for the kids!<\/p>\n<p><em>Click on any photo below for an enlarged image.<\/em><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997-3.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997 (3)\" data-caption=\"My first timber frame. Joinery began in 2003, raised on a sunny April day. Turned out great!\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997-3.webp\" alt=\"A group of people sitting on top of a wooden structure.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"490\" height=\"338\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"490\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"338\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997\" data-caption=\"Family &amp; doggies checking out the frame.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997.webp\" alt=\"A group of people sitting on top of a wooden structure.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"490\" height=\"338\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"490\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"338\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997-4.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997 (4)\" data-caption=\"Made it my first workshop.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997-4.webp\" alt=\"A small wooden shed with green roof and two windows.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"490\" height=\"338\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"490\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"338\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997-2.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997 (2)\" data-caption=\"My tool collection has since outgrown that toolbox &amp; moved into a large tool-cart.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997-2.webp\" alt=\"A group of people sitting on top of a wooden structure.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"490\" height=\"338\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"490\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"338\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997-1.webp\" data-fancybox=\"images\" title=\"b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997 (1)\" data-caption=\"Pine b&amp;b siding, barn-sash windows &amp; tin roof. Steps did come later.\" data-description=\"\" itemprop=\"contentUrl\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/b10dd6b5ab798a1bb4ad1cd19ea6b997-1.webp\" alt=\"A group of people sitting on top of a wooden structure.\" data-no-lazy=\"1\" itemprop=\"thumbnail\" width=\"490\" height=\"338\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Overlay Wrapper -->\n\t\t\t <!-- Overlay Wrapper Closed -->\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"width\" content=\"490\">\n\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"height\" content=\"338\">\n\t\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":190,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-23","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/23","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/23\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":573,"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/23\/revisions\/573"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/190"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vortexdesign.com\/sptj\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}