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Weekend Workshops

The Historic Preservation Weekend Workshops (formerly Historic Homeowners Academy) is a series of weekend courses. Topics include plaster crack repair, masonry repointing, window repairs, mechanical system repairs, carpentry as well as understanding tax credit and design guidelines. American Institute of Architects (AIA) CEUs are available for some workshops.

The Weekend Workshop cost is $175 per weekend, which includes a materials fee. The workshops have limited space. The deadline to register, if space is available, is noon on the Thursday prior to the workshop. The workshops will be held at the STC Historic Preservation lab (5717 White Bluff Road). Call 912-443-5864 with questions.

Stained Glass – Copper Foil Technique (March 2-3, 2024)

No experience is necessary. Participants will learn to use tools to select, prepare and cut stained glass. This technique uses thin copper foil to wrap the colorful glass pieces, and the joints are then fused together with lead solder. Participants will complete piece appropriate for display. $175 per person. 8AM-5:30PM. Saturday/Sunday (must attend both days). Bring a lunch. Tools/materials will be provided. Register by Feb. 29. Workshop instructor: Terry Koller (bio below)

Stained Glass – Lead Came Technique (April 6-7, 2024)

No experience is necessary. Participants will learn to use tools to select, prepare and cut stained glass. Using this technique, the glass pieces are fitted into channeled strips of lead. The joints are then fused together with lead solder. $175 per person. 8AM-5:30PM. Saturday/Sunday (must attend both days). Bring a lunch. Tools/materials will be provided. Register by April 4. Workshop instructor: Terry Koller (bio below)

Stained Glass Guest Instructor Terry Koller

Terry Koller has a rich educational and training background in preservation. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Mechanical Design from Triangle Technical College in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, completed coursework in Civil Engineering at Point Park University, also in Pittsburgh, and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Historic Preservation from the Savannah College of Art and Design. He completed a two-month program in Sienna, Italy with Villanova University and Rosemont College focusing on Renaissance Art and Architecture, Art Restoration, the modern Italian Art Industry, and the Italian Language. Koller has worked in Construction, Craft, and the Field of Historic Preservation for over 30 years. Koller has been employed by the Coastal Heritage Society for 20 years managing the operation and care of six museums in the Savannah area. 

Historic Preservation Weekend Workshops:

Previous Workshops:

  • Carpentry – CARPENTRY FOR WOMEN I: HANDTOOLS Make a wall-hanging decorative shelf using a historic window header. Learn how to use a woodworker’s bench as well as the basic hand-tools for carpentry, including tape measure, speed square, handsaws, hammer, sanding block, pipe clamp, chisel, and scoring knife. Learn about the use of wood glue as well as different wood finishes such as stain and polyurethane. Take home a piece of historic Savannah that is both beautiful and functional! (June 2021)
  • Carpentry – CARPENTRY FOR WOMEN II: POWER TOOLS Make a small craftsman style picture frame using reclaimed wood and window glass. Learn how to use the basic power tools for carpentry, including drills, chop saw, table saw, planer, orbital sander, pneumatic nailer, and router. Learn about layout and working with wood grain as well as basic glass cutting. Take home a finished picture frame made of historic Savannah lumber to hang in your home! (July 2021)
  • Timber Framing – WHAT DID THEY DO BEFORE NAILS? This workshop will learn the basics to cutting timber frame joinery. Using tools you can purchase at a local building supply learn to make a basic mortis and tenon connections fastened by wooden pegs in small timber projects. We will build some “saw horses” that will be assembled using only these age old techniques. Basic familiarity with circular saws, drills, measuring and using a mallet or hammer are very helpful but not required. Kevin Wilson first discovered timber framing from a book he saw in an airport bookstore in 1979. 33 years later, with projects in 25 states, the Bahamas, and Bermuda he is still learning with each project and teaching the next generation of framers. (Cancelled 2021).
  • Carpentry – DECONSTRUCTION AND REPURPOSING Learn the basic skills for harvesting reusable materials from a “demo” project. Learn useful techniques for effective use of crowbars to prevent material breakage and maximize efficiency while protecting your body from unnecessary strain. Learn when to use an electric saw and when to use manual force as well as proper safety procedures. Learn the best tools and methods for removal of nails and how to handle hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead paint.
  • Blacksmithing – FORGING: FIRST STEPS This class explores the fundamentals of working with hot metal. Covering safety, hand hammer use, the forge, working at the anvil, and basic tooling. This weekend workshop will focus on twisting, tapering, and bending to produce beautiful and functional objects. Come ready to do the twist. Project ideas could include bracelets/armbands, campfire roasters, fire poker, etc. Derek Hopp has over 30 years of making objects in metal. Derek first got started early on in art metal foundry work casting bronze and aluminum next was fabrication and then finally forging. (May 2021).
  • Blacksmithing – MORE FUN WITH HOT METAL Who says scrolling is only for your phone? Learn the age–old form of scrollwork, a traditional form of blacksmithing spanning hundreds of years and many different cultures.  Topics will include riveting, hot collars, and jigs. Project focus: create a simple design with multiple scrolls with riveted/collared connections.  Derek Hopp has over 30 years of making objects in metal. Derek first got started early on in art metal foundry work casting bronze and aluminum next was fabrication and then finally forging. (June 2021).
  • Blacksmithing – THE FINAL HEAT Building on the knowledge gained in the first two classes; this workshop will amp things up. Students will try their hand at tool making. Learn to use the power hammer, Fly press, chisels and other tools to further your understanding of working hot metal. Get ready to gear up! Project focus: chisels/drifts, tongs, and hammers.  Derek Hopp has over 30 years of making objects in metal. Derek first got started early on in art metal foundry work casting bronze and aluminum next was fabrication and then finally forging. (July 2021).
  • Faux Finishing – INTRODUCTION TO FAUX FINISHING TECHNIQUES – Wood Graining and Marbling. In this class, students will discover the various materials, tools, and techniques associated with the art of painting faux woods and marbles. Used extensively throughout southern colonial architecture, these techniques allowed artisans and craftspeople to impart on local material an exotic finish. Susan Lavold, a southwestern artist, has utilized these techniques to accent her paintings and furniture pieces to highlight the natural material beauty of the southwest. (July 2021).
  • Timber Framing – WHAT DID THEY DO BEFORE NAILS? This workshop will learn the basics to cutting timber frame joinery. Using tools you can purchase at a local building supply learn to make a basic mortis and tenon connections fastened by wooden pegs in small timber projects. We will build some “saw horses” that will be assembled using only these age old techniques. Basic familiarity with circular saws, drills, measuring and using a mallet or hammer are very helpful but not required. Kevin Wilson first discovered timber framing from a book he saw in an airport bookstore in 1979. 33 years later, with projects in 25 states, the Bahamas, and Bermuda he is still learning with each project and teaching the next generation of framers. (postponed 2021)
  • Shoemaking – Internal Stitch-down shoes with Vibram soles (MON-FRI): The internal stitch down is a more modern style of shoe that uses the same one piece upper and flap construction, but attaches to a commercial Vibram brand sole. This sole style gives you about a 3/4″ buffer between your foot and the ground which can be helpful in the winter months when the ground is colder. Sole styles can be chosen for traction on terrain, cushioning on cement, or even straight leather for use on the dance floor. The upper is made from rugged Bison leather and could last a lifetime if properly cared for. 4 leather colors to choose from. This class uses some power tools. Instructor: Michael Ismerio. Cost $325 (includes materials fee). Cancelled due to low registration.

  • Lathe Work – Metal Spinning: This class will explore the ancient and relevant process of metal spinning. We will prepare wooden forms on the lathe and polish the tool that will be used to spin metal. Then we will explore the delicate “dance” required to actually spin metal. We will spin a small bowl using aluminum. The adventurous should have time to try making a Jefferson cup out of pewter or other projects. No experience in metal or wood is required, but expect to be standing for extended periods of time. Instructor: Steve Ainsworth. Cost $150 (includes materials fee). Cancelled due to low registration.

  • Blacksmithing (Intro) Students will introduced to the fundamental skills of fire maintenance, drawing metal out, twisting, flattening, scrolling, and upsetting. Students also will be introduced to the various materials, tools, and techniques associated with the art of blacksmithing. Students will make a coat rack their own s-hooks and coat rack with they may keep. Instructor: Benjamin Curran. [Sept. 2018, April 2019]

  • Chair Caning (Seat Weaving) Learn how to weave a new seat in an old chair from a veteran John C. Campbell Folk School instructor.  Because of the limited class time, you will learn the caning process on a frame that you will keep, and you will also receive detailed written instructions. Your frame will aid in weaving your chair at home, and can be hung on a wall as a piece of art you created. Different types of caning and different patterns will be taught. Bring your own chair for insight and advice on how to recane it. Instructor: Gary Marshall.

  • Introduction to Woodturning I – Make a writing pen: This entry-level class will cover the basics of woodturning materials, tools, techniques, and safety. Students will hone their skills making a wooden pen. [April 2018, April 2019]

  • Sweetgrass Basket Making: Learn the art of Sweetgrass Basketry with husband and wife team, Darryl and Angela Stoneworth, for a 2.5 day course on the demonstration of this lost art. Students will make and take home their own basket. Instructors: Darryl and Angela Stoneworth. [April 2018]

  • Introduction to Blacksmithing: A veteran instructor at the John C. Campbell Folk School will be teaching an introductory that will introduce students to the fundamental skills of fire maintenance, drawing meal out, twisting, flattening, scrolling, and upsetting. Students will be introduced to the various materials, tools, and techniques associated with the art of blacksmithing. Students will make a coat rack their own s-hooks and coat rack with they may keep. Instructor: Abel Allen. [SOLD OUT March 2018]

  • Historic Masonry Mortar Workshop: This course will cover the theory, principles and techniques applicable to all historic structures, gravestones, monuments and related materials composed from stone, or masonry. Students will be introduced to the formulation and application of restoration mortars, grouts, and composite patching materials. Instructor: Jonathon Appell. [Feb. 2018, Jan. 2020]

  • Historic Roofing: Students will work with historic roofing repair expert Jamie Marley to develop a basic understanding of the materials, methods and techniques involved in the repair and restore historic tin, and slate roofs. Instructor: Jamie Marley. [Oct. 2018]. [CANCELLED due to low registration.]

  • Introduction to Hand Tool Use I: Learn how to use hand tools while making your own wooden tri-square and marking gauge. Students will be introduced to the proper use and maintenance of power-free measuring, marking, cutting, and chiseling tools. This is an introductory class and is open to all experience levels. It will be followed up latter in the year by Introduction to Hand Tool Use II, in which students will make their own tool tote, and Introduction to Hand Tool Use III in which student will make a shaker style sawing bench. Instructor: Benjamin Curran. [Feb. 2018]

  • Introduction to Faux Finishing – Wood Graining and Marbling:In this class students will discover the various materials, tools, and techniques associated with the art of painting faux woods and marbles. Used extensively throughout southern colonial architecture, these techniques allowed artisans and craftspeople to impart on local material an exotic finish. Susan Lavold, a southwestern artist, has utilized these techniques to accent her paintings and furniture pieces to highlight the natural material beauty of the south west.  [July 2017/July 2018/July 2019]

  • An Introduction to Woodturning: This entry-level class will cover the basics of woodturning materials, tools, techniques, and safety. Students will hone their skills making various home wares, such as honey dippers, hair pins, wine stoppers and more. The perfect opportunity to make a gift for an upcoming birthday. All levels are welcome. Steve Cook owns and runs Coastal Wood Design in Savannah, a wood shop specializing in architectural turnings, turned gift items, cutting boards and custom projects such as furniture, historic windows and custom kitchens. [June 2017, April 2019]

  • Plaster Repair: Led by Patrick Webb, this workshop will introduce students to the basics of lime chemistry, gypsum chemistry, mixing mortars, molding theory, casting, and bench work. At the end of the workshop students will have a fundamental understand of the plaster trades and their application to the preservation and restoration of historic homes. Patrick Webb is a heritage and ornamental plasterer, educator, and advocate for historically utilized plasters, such as, clay, lime, and gypsum. He has studied plastering traditions under true masters in the U.S., as well as, England, Germany, France, Italy, and Morocco.  [June 2017, October 2018]

  • Stained Glass Lamp Making: Led by local stained glass artist Mark McKim, this two-day workshop, will introduce students to the fundamental tools and techniques of stained glass, such as scoring, cutting, soldering, and tinning, as well as their application to the fabrication of basic lamp shades. A native of Savannah, Ga., McKim became interested in and began working in the art of stained glass at the age of 19. He apprenticed himself for seven years to his older brother, Rollin McKim (the first in the family to work with stained glass and who later opened a gallery in Colorado).  He further broadened his technique and artistic design under the instruction of Lorn R. Marshall of Greenville, S.C.  [June 2017]

  • Nantucket Basketry: Join veteran John C. Campbell Folk School Basketry instructor for an introductory class in Nantucket Basketry. Students will be introduced to the basic materials, tools, and techniques associated with this traditional basket making craft. Students will also learn how to create different patterns and add color to their designs. Instructor: Gary Marshall.  [May & December 2017]

  • Introduction to Woodworking: Looking to develop some basic wood working skills? This class is design for the novice woodworker. Steve Cook will with work with students to introduce them the basic hand tools and techniques associated with traditional and conventional joiner and woodworking. Students will learn about the various tools associated with measuring, marking, sawing, and chiseling. Students will then apply these skills to the fabrication of some basic joinery. Student will experience will culminate in the completion of a small keepsake. Steve owns and runs Coastal Wood Design in Savannah, a wood shop specializing in architectural turnings, turned gift items, cutting boards and custom projects such as furniture, historic windows and custom kitchens. Instructor: Steve Cook. [May 2017, Sept. 2018]

  • Cemetery and Funerary Monument Repair: This workshop event will introduce students to the various aspects of gravestone and cemetery monument preservation. The majority of commonly encountered problems with memorials, which are both historic as well as modern, will be over viewed, discussed. Repair, cleaning and numerous other conservation treatments will be demonstrated and conducted as an interactive group experience. Workshop will be taught by a professional masonry conservation specialist with expertise in gravestone, monument, sculpture and historic masonry preservation. Trained in engineering, violin and cabinet making, sculpture and stone carving, he has worked in fields related to historic masonry for over 25 years.  Instructor: Jon Appell. [March/April 2017 + March 2018, November 2019]

  • Blacksmithing: Work with renowned blacksmith Joe Miller to create a one-of-a-kind 3D aquatic “Critter.” Students will learned to hammer out the shape of a fish in two pieces of sheet metal using a torch, join them together, smooth the edges, and add details like gills, tails, eyes, scales, and seaweed. This class will introduce students to basic forge work, torch work, repose, and basic chasing. Joe Miller’s breadth of skills as a blacksmith and examples of his various Critters can be seen at his website metalbymiller.com. Joe has been teaching at the John C. Campbell Folk School since the 1980’s. Instructor: Joe Miller. [March/April 2017]

  • Historic Millwork: Join Brent Hull, a nationally renowned historic millwork expert, for a two day seminar on classical design, proportioning, and the evolution of historic millwork in America. Saturday, student will work with Brent on learning to drawing classical architectural details using basic scale and proportioning relationships. Sunday student will learn about the evolution of American molding profiles and how to incorporate classical design into restorations or new construction. Brent is a graduate of the prestigious North Bennet Street School, the oldest trade school in America, the owner and founder of Hull Historical in Fort Worth Texas, is the host of Lone Star Restoration on the History Channel, and has written three books on classical moldings and their application in new and old homes. Instructor: Brent Hull. [April 2017]

  • Stained Glass: Explore the basic skills involved torch and kiln fusing glass. Students will learn the fundamental tools, techniques, and safety factors associated with fusing glass. All are welcome from beginner to experienced students. Students will make a small torch fused glass piece and a kiln fused piece. Instructor: Mark McKim. [Dec. 2018/July 2019/November 2019]

  • Introduction to Architectural Wood Carving: Interested in learning the basics of traditional wood carving techniques? This class will provide a fundamental understanding of the tools, equipment, knife cutting techniques, gouge and chisel techniques associated with decorative and architectural woodcarving. Instructor: Mary May. [Dec. 2016, Dec. 2017, Dec. 2018]

  • Stained Glass – Lead Came: Advance your stained glass techniques using traditional lead came. In this two-day workshop, students will learn the fundamental tools and techniques of scoring, cutting, soldering, and tinning – all necessary to make basic stained glass designs. Beginners welcome. Instructor: Mark McKim. [December 2016]

  • Introduction to Blacksmithing: Learn basic blacksmithing techniques and catch up on your holiday gift needs all at the same time. Student will learn basic fire management and fundamental forging techniques. AIA CEUS available for this workshop, contact Benjamin Curran for more details. [Dec. 2016 – Class Cancelled]

  • Bungalow History & Design: This course will explore the history, principles, and examples that are behind the architecture of this proto-modern design reform movement, and allow attendees to answer the often-elusive question “What is a Bungalow and an Arts & Crafts house?” It will also explore some of the characteristic features of these buildings – particularly interiors (woodworks and color schemes), kitchens, and porches — that pioneered many of the features and ideas we take for granted in up-to-date houses today. The course may also include a walking tour of nearby houses, subject to schedule. Instructor: Gordon Bock. [November 2016]

  • Stained Glass – Copper Foil: Create your own stained glass sun catcher panel while learning basic stained glass techniques using copper foil. In this two-day workshop, students will learn the fundamental tools and techniques of scoring, cutting, soldering, and tinning – all necessary to make basic stained glass designs. Instructor: Mark McKim.  [November 2016]

  • Historic Window Workshop – Part II: Thinking about upgrading those old windows? Don’t! Learn the basic skills necessary to breath new life into old windows. This class will focus on hands-on techniques such as paint stripping, dutchman repair, and glazing. Instructor: Benjamin Curran.  [Cancelled for November 2016]

  • Furniture Repair and Restoration: This class will introduce the seasoned woodworker, the consummate antique collector, or the curious novice to the process of furniture disassembly, wood surface preparation, basic dutchman repair, and refinishing. Instructor: Charles Heydinger.  SOLD OUT [November 2016].

  • Historic Roofing Repair & Restoration Intensive: Curricular students will work with historic roofing repair expert Jamie Marley to develop the basic skills necessary to repair and restore historic tin and copper roofs. Instructor: Jamie Marley. AIA CEUS available for this workshop, contact Benjamin Curran for more details.[November 2016].

  • Historic Windows Workshop, Part I: This class will cover the history and design evolution of 17th through 20th century windows. Topics will include construction methods, historic production, joinery, design details, and historic window types. Instructor: Gordon Bock.  [November 2016].

  • Elements of the Tuscan Order: This fast-paced one-day workshop provides a beginner’s introduction to classical architecture including lecture and studio instruction. Participants will first learn to free-hand draw and name classical molding elements while considering their geometric, practical and aesthetic properties. Further considered will be the historical, proportional, ornamental, anthropomorphic characteristic that help identify the Tuscan as a distinct order from the Doric e.g. The principal focus of the course concludes with the layout and drawing of a Tuscan entablature and column with a focus on the column base and capital. If time permits further consideration will be given to design of the pediment, facade and layout for the diminution of the shaft. Instructor: Patrick Webb. AIA CEUS available for this workshop, contact Benjamin Curran for more details. [November 2016]

  • Decorative Plaster Workshop: Led by Patrick Webb, this workshop will introduce students to the basics of lime chemistry, gypsum chemistry, mixing mortars, moulding theory, casting, and scagliola. At the end of the workshop students will have a fundamental understand of the plaster trades and their application to the preservation and restoration of historic homes. [July 2016]

  • Traditional Brick Making Workshop: Under the instruction of Jason Whitehead, students will get covered in clay, as they learn the basics of clay mixing, hand molding bricks, and drying bricks for firing later on this year. This weekend class will be followed up by a class in October that will involve the construction of a traditional clamp kiln and the firing of student-made bricks. [July 2016]

  • Basic Stained Glass Techniques Workshop: Led by Mark McKim, this introduction to stained glass will cover the copper foil technique. In this two-day workshop, students will make a stained glass sun catcher panel. Students will learn the fundamental tools and techniques, such as scoring, cutting, soldering, and tinning, necessary to make basic stained glass objects. The class will also touch upon design and color theory.  [July 2016]

  • Plaster Repair Workshop: Webb will return in August to teach plaster repair. Attendance for the July workshop isn’t required to attend the repair workshop. [August 2016]

  • Introduction to Wood Carving: Under the instruction of Rooney Floyd, students will learn the basics of traditional wood carving techniques? This class will provide you with a fundamental understanding of the tools, equipment, knife cutting techniques, gouge and chisel techniques associated with decorative and architectural woodcarving. Students will work of a relief carving project.  [Sept. 2016]

  • Introduction to Timber Framing: What did they do before nails? Led by Kevin Wilson, this workshop will learn the basics to cutting timber frame joinery. Using tools you can purchase at a local building supply, learn to make a basic mortis and tenon connections fastened by wooden pegs in small timber projects. We will build some “saw horses” that will be assembled using only these age old techniques. Basic familiarity with circular saws, drills, measuring and using a mallet or hammer are very helpful but not required.  [Sept. 2016, Nov. 17, Dec. 18]

  • Brick Making: With a backdrop of a traditional clamp kiln, students will learning about colonial brick and lime production. Using traditional methods, materials, and techniques, students will become familiar with the art and craft of masonry repair and restoration. Instructor: Jason Whitehead. AIA CEUS available for this workshop, contact Benjamin Curran for more details.  [October 2016 – Cancelled due to Hurricane Matthew.]

  • Introduction to Iron Work: Ever wonder what the difference is between wrought iron and cast iron? How about the distinctions in design defined by the material. This class will involve, class lecture, demonstrations, and walking tours that offer a survey of local iron work. Instructors: Rooney Floyd and Able Allen.  [October 2016 – Cancelled due to Hurricane Matthew.]

  • Historic Building Research and Documentation: This course will be co-taught by Luciana Spracher and Rebecca Fenwick. Rebecca will introduce students to the basic field methods of documentation and analysis of historic sites and structures to include an overview of measured drawings and photography. Students will gain a greater understanding of field methods, techniques, and uses for recording historic buildings as well as perform basic documentation techniques in the field to record a local historic structure.  [October 2016 – Cancelled due to Hurricane Matthew.]