In-Person Course FAQ

Students need not concern themselves with bringing their own tools. Every participant in our Purely Post & Beam course will be provided with a meticulously curated, comprehensive tool kit, which becomes theirs to keep upon completion of the course. We have devoted the past five decades to identifying and incorporating the finest tools available into this kit. Moreover, we've found that retaining the very tools with which one learns the art of timber framing proves invaluable for continued practice and mastery.

Upon registering for a class at the Shelter Institute, you'll receive our comprehensive housing list, featuring approximately forty unique lodging options within commuting distance of our campus. Accommodations range from rooms in our hosts' homes, starting at $100 per week, to waterfront cottages at $400 or more per week. Some students opt for camping or bring their own RVs. Traditional hotels and motels are also available nearby. We encourage you to select accommodations that best suit your individual needs and preferences. While having a car is highly beneficial, we've had some enterprising students manage quite well with just a bicycle.

Mirroring the diversity in lodging options, our students enjoy a wide array of dining choices. Numerous restaurants are located within a five-mile radius of the campus, while a grocery store, convenience store, and pizza place are situated just a mile down the road. Many participants opt to bring packed lunches or prepare their own meals during their stay, with some accommodations offering kitchen privileges. Our course schedule includes several evening events. Both the one week and two week courses typically feature an evening barbecue, and a culminating potluck supper. We encourage you to bring your favorite foods and be ready to share with your fellow students

Maine's weather varies dramatically throughout the year. From January through March, average temperatures range from a low of 15°F to a high of 33°F. April to June sees milder conditions, with average temperatures spanning 43°F to 63°F. The warmest period, July through September, boasts average temperatures between 55°F and 74°F. Finally, October to December experiences a cooling trend, with average temperatures falling between 28°F and 45°F. Given these fluctuations, we recommend dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes (boots are not necessary). Don't forget to bring safety glasses!

Our classes are in high demand, often with waiting lists. We encourage students to register as soon as they've determined their preferred attendance dates. While we rely on each student's commitment and plan meticulously, we understand that life can be unpredictable. If you're unable to attend a class you've registered for, we offer one free cancellation, allowing you to apply your full deposit to another class of your choice. In such cases, we typically place you in 'Floater' status until you re-register for a class you can attend. Your tuition deposit is held for three years. If it is not used within 3 years of your cancellation, it is forfeited. A second cancellation results in a $100 deduction from your deposit, and a third cancellation forfeits the remainder. Please note that cancellations within three weeks of the class start date result in complete forfeiture of your registration deposit.

In rare circumstances, Shelter may need to cancel or reschedule a class. This can occur if enrollment falls below the minimum required or if an instructor faces medical or personal issues. Should such a situation arise, Shelter will provide a full refund of class tuition and/or registration deposits. In the event of a cancellation due to inclement weather, we will make every effort to reschedule the class as soon as possible after the original date.

Shelter has welcomed customers and students from across the globe, including Europe, Asia, Australia, and Latin America. In recent years, we've had the pleasure of hosting participants from Germany, Brazil, New Zealand, Poland, Spain, and France. While some of our instructors are proficient French speakers, please note that all courses are conducted in English. International students can register for courses online or by phone or email.