5 Days: Monday - Friday
Tuition: $1,375.00
Ages: 16 & Up
Instructor: Patrick Moore
Instructional Delivery Method(s): In person
Prerequisites: None
Program Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Program Description:
In this course, students will work together to build one complex, yet manageable, awning for over a doorway or window using the principles of stereotomy. Through this process they will explore the design of the historic lucarne guitarde or its slightly less complex cousin, the lucarne capucine. Developed in the Loire Valley in France during the eighteenth century, the guitarde is an elaborate type of dormer that seamlessly combines structurally sound construction techniques with pleasing aesthetics. Characterized by its interlacing, double-curved wooden pieces, it historically became a distinct mark of quality and craftsmanship in carpentry.
The design consists of these three-dimensionally curved pieces, known in carpentry as double- curvature work. Figuring how to cut the real lengths, angles, and curves of each piece relies on l'art du trait (the art of the line), the historic French tradition of stereotomy recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
This course will explore the same process of geometrical carpentry drawing pioneered by Nicolas Fourneau, an 18th-century master carpenter and guild Compagnon. Fourneau realized the inadequacies of ancient medieval setting-out methods and, by testing improvements among his fellow tradesmen, wrote the first modern treatise on geometrical carpentry drawing in 1767.
Students will learn to use the visuospatial part of their brain; the group of cognitive functions which analyzes and understands space to solve these complexities. Students will use mental imagery and navigation to process and rotate 2D and 3D objects in their mind. The visuospatial construction process enables craftsmen to reproduce drawings or use components to construct objects and shapes. Visuospatial functions represent the brain's highest level of visual processing.
The use of stereotomy – Art du Trait transforms the work as well as the worker. With support and supervision from Patrick, students will think, reflect, and learn to envision differently. Stereotomy – Art du Trait makes anyone who has mastered it, a visionary in spatial depth. It is the alchemy of solids.
A prerequisite of the course is to have knowledge, understanding, and use of both hand and power tools.
Learning Objectives:
Understanding Stereotomy and L'Art du Trait: Exploring the historical and cultural significance of the French scribing tradition and its profound impact on spatial visualization and traditional craftsmanship.
Foundational Geometric Drafting: Mastering the essential techniques of classical drafting pioneered by 18th-century master carpenters like Nicolas Fourneau.
Developing Comprehensive Stereotomical Plans: Constructing precise two-dimensional representations—including plan, elevation, and net views—to conceptualize three-dimensional structures.
Translating Theory to Layout: Applying intricate geometric drawings directly to timber, effectively bridging the gap between theoretical drafting and practical execution.
Mastering Double-Curvature Layouts: Navigating the specific visuospatial challenges of drawing and plotting interlacing, three-dimensionally curved wooden components.
Execution and Traditional Craftsmanship: Utilizing a disciplined combination of traditional hand tools and modern power tools to accurately cut, shape, and assemble compound curves.
Attendance Requirements: Students must attend all days
Location: Sam Beauford Woodshop, 1375 N. Main St, Building 41, Adrian, Michigan 49221
Class Size: Maximum 8 students
Click Here to view our Refund, Cancellation, and Complaint Resolution Policies
If you have any questions, please contact Patrick Moore at 819-664-9596 or lamidutrait@gmail.com or
Luke Barnett at (517) 759-3070 or luke@sambeaufordwoodshop.com
Cover Photo by Patrick Moore
AIA Advance Learner Preparation: None
AIA Approved Learning Units & Type: 44 Elective
AIA CES Program Approval Expiration Date: 11/08/2027
Official AIA CES Provider Statement: Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 10009739. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3). This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.