Information for Organizations Wishing to Host a Workshop

Richard Waters

To me the most important part of a workshop is connecting with the people and making it fun. Creating a relaxed atmosphere only helps people to learn and retain information.
Over the years of attending many different workshops as a student, I have learned that it is the little snippets of wisdom and practical tips & tricks imparted from an experienced craftsman that are the most helpful and memorable.

The Workshop

Workshops are for one day, from 9am to 4/5pm with a break for lunch. If demand is strong and the class fills quickly, I can certainly do another separate workshop the following day or even at a later date.
The ideal class size is 10-12 people to a max of 15. With any more in the class it is harder to control and individuals don’t get the attention they need.

My Needs & Requirements

Shaping a Roof Pole

I actually need very little to host a workshop, I bring everything with me. I always like to do it outdoors, preferably in the shade of a big tree where we can sit, work and “chew the fat”. Power is not essential, but having it nearby is useful for charging batteries and demonstrating how power tools really can speed things up.
The only other thing I need is somewhere to put up my yurt to sleep at night:-)

Power Tools & Machinery

I do not like to use table saws and equipment and I limit use of power tools to battery operated drills to avoid any potential injuries. Because of this, all the wood for the that I bring with me, is pre-cut. I explain how much wood is needed to make a yurt out of lumber and the most effective way to rip it without wasting any.

A Shave Horse

For the most part, students learn how to make the yurt parts with hand tools, but if they have tools and equipment, I explain how to use them effectively.
One of the best tools you can have for yurt making is an old fashioned Shave Horse. Used since the 14th century and probably before, it is a bench seat with integral foot operated clamp. I bring two with me and they are used extensively in the workshop to hold wood to shape and round edges with a spoke shave. A Shave Horse is such a great tool for so many tasks I have often thought about running a “Build a Shave Horse Workshop “.

The Yurt

Due to the number of wall laths and roof poles, there just isn’t enough time for everyone to make a yurt. In most cases I take the parts away with me. Occasionally the host organization wants to keep the yurt made during the workshop. Arrangements for this must be made in advance as extra costs are involved for the canvas. Other parts including one of my elegant Roof Rings are discounted.

The yurt we make at the workshop is the 12ft version. I supply all the materials and tools. Depending on the needs or wishes of the host, I can tailor the workshop to the host’s requirements.

Marketing and Advertising

Drilling Holes in Wall Lattice

All workshops are advertised on my website, whether held here in Summer Lake, Oregon or elsewhere at other locations. I rely on the host’s members, network and local advertising to fill all the places. I sometimes have individuals contact me looking for a local workshop, and these I pass on to the hosts.
Host organizations are often holding many other classes and workshops and so have a ready list of potential participants.

I am always looking to expand my network of events in the Pacific North West, but would welcome other venues further afield.

Please contact me if you are interested in hosting one of my workshops