We believe you can build your own home.

Since 1974 we've helped thousands of students learn the ins-and-outs of timber framing, general construction, and building science.

 
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Where Would You Like To Start?

Online Courses

Timber framing, woodworking and much more at in-person quality, from your own home.Ā 

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In-PersonĀ Courses

Join us in person on our campus in Maine to learn timber framing, building science or both.

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Online Course Offerings

Learn at your own pace from anywhere in the world.Ā 

Purely Post & Beam Online Course

12+ hrs of recorded video, downloadable PDF Cut Sheets for a 24' x 24' Timber Frame in both U.S. & Metric, access to Private Alumni-Only Facebook Group, get 10% off Shelter's Tool Store, and learn at your own pace!

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SIP Construction Online Course

Learn about Shelter Instituteā€™s favorite way of enclosing a Timber Frame structure with this companion to the Purely Post-And-Beam Online Course. Includes 3+ hours of recorded video, downloadable PDF packet, and you can learn at your own pace.

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FREE Timber Framing Mini-Course

We've handpicked 1.5+ hours of content from our collection of Timber Framing Online Courses, and created this FREE course sampler that will walk you through cutting a Thru Tenon (an essential part of timber frame joinery!), and the basics of assembling a SIP panel wall.

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Upcoming In-Person Courses

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Close up shot of splitting wood.
WANT A SAMPLE?

Try Our Free Mini Course!

We've handpicked 1.5+ hours of content from our collection of Timber Framing Online Courses, and created this FREE course sampler that will walk you through cutting a Thru Tenon (an essential part of timber frame joinery!), and the basics of assembling a SIP panel wall.

GET STARTED
WHO IS SHELTER INSTITUTE?

We are a third generation family business.

Shelter is committed to working with our clients to create effective homes. We offer fine woodworking tools, Design Build services, real estate, and accredited classes in homebuilding.

At Shelter, we have been evolving durable, adaptable, energy-conscious building techniques since 1974.

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Owners of Shelter Institute.

"This class was packed with useful knowledge while still being clear and concise. It uses a very practivally sized example structure and covers the entire process. Well worth the money and time. Very well done for an online version of such a hands on subject."

-Ā Jared Caskey

"This course is the best bang for your buck if your unable to make it to the onsite course. Very informative and a great way to learn."

-Ā Drew Skiff

"These courses are really great. As I have initiated my learning on posts and beams timber framing I can't express enough how I am really enjoying these courses, they are simply awesome."

- Santiago Ventura

Online Courses

Dive into the world of timber framing and woodworking with our comprehensive online courses.

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Need tools for your next project?

Stock up at our Shelter Tools site. See the tool list associated with your course.

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We are here to help!

Need some additional help discovering which course may be best for you? Having issues with signing up? Contact us today.

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