Beginner Cabin Building June 2024

Always wanted to build a cabin, shed, or tiny home but don't know where to start? 

This workshop is for you.

"Seven years ago I wanted to build cabins and other small buildings but knew nothing. Now, I have built 10 cabins, platforms, outside showers, plumbing systems, and many other buildings. Come learn from my experience. If I can do it you surely can! " - Russell, MareGold Centre

This workshop is designed for individuals who want to learn the basics of building a cabin. Participants will learn about site selection, floor plan design, material selection, tool usage, and construction techniques from experienced builders who have done it. They will provide instruction and guidance throughout the process as well as give a tour of the cabins they have built. By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained practical knowledge and confidence to begin building their own cabin or communicate more effectively with a contractor during the building process.

Course Title: Beginner’s Cabin Building Workshop

Course Duration: One Day from 10:00-4:30. Sunday, June 23th, 2024

Course Cost: $199.99 (includes organic vegetarian lunch) 

Course Prerequisites: No prior experience or skills are necessary. This is NOT a hands-on building workshop and you will not need any special tools or clothing.

Course Description:

This workshop will provide participants with a comprehensive introduction to the cabin building process, from design and planning to material selection and construction techniques. The workshop will be at MareGold Centre in Victoria Beach, Nova Scotia which provides a scenic and rustic environment that is conducive to learning and practicing new skills.

Participants will learn about site selection, equipment, tools, safety measures, creating material lists and budgets, and sourcing materials. The workshop will also cover the essential steps involved in building a cabin yourself, including footings, flooring, framing, window installation, rafters, roofing, interior finishes, and cladding. Additionally, participants will be taken on a tour of different types of cabins and learn about the tricks of the trade and common mistakes to avoid.

Course Outline:

I. Introduction and Site Orientation (15 minutes)

a. Site orientation and introduction to the facilities at MareGold Centre

b. Overview of the workshop objectives and agenda

c. Safety briefing and expectations

II. Cabin Design and Planning (60 minutes)

a. Discuss the key design considerations for a simple cabin

b. Review different cabin designs and floor plans, including CAD design

c. Discuss the importance of site selection and how to evaluate a potential cabin site

d. Ideas and inspiration from books and magazines

III. Materials, Tools, and Equipment (30 minutes)

a. Discuss the different types of building materials needed to build a cabin

b. Review different types of tools and equipment required

c. Tool safety and tool demonstration

d. Creating a materials list and budget

IV. Cabin Construction Techniques (60 minutes)

a. Demonstrate how to pour footings for the foundation of the cabin

b. Discuss the different techniques for framing the cabin walls

c. Discuss the steps involved in installing the rafters and roofing

d. Demonstrate how to install windows and doors

V. Cabin Finishing and Decoration (60 minutes)

a. Discuss the different types of finishing and decoration options for a cabin

b. Demonstrate how to install insulation and wall covering options.

c. Discuss different options for flooring, trim, and cabinetry

d. Details of exterior cladding options

VI Lunch ( 45 MIN) - Provided by The MareGold Centre

VII. Tour of Cabins (90 minutes)

a. Different types of cabins

b. Tricks of the trade

c. Common mistakes and how to avoid them.

VIII. Wrap-up and Next Steps (15 minutes)

a. Review what was covered during the workshop

b. Discuss the next steps for participants interested in building a cabin

c. Provide a list of resources and references for further learning and support