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blizzard
11-01-2007, 05:00 PM
hey folks,

Found this website a few days ago and I'm mighty glad I did. I'm pretty new to the log cabin community, in fact building a cabin is something I've only started considering in the last week or two, though a desire to escape to the wilderness has been festering for much longer :-)

Buying land and beginning construction is probably 5-10 years away for me, given that I'm only 25 and not in a financial position to undertake such a project at this point. That said, my goals are relatively modest. While it seems most folks here are building log homes as primary residences, I'd like to build something smaller as a weekend retreat. Perhaps 500-700 sqft with a small loft. Of course, my goals could change before I'm ready to build, but I wouldn't be comfortable starting with anything too much bigger. Maybe I'll even start with a shed!

Naturally, I plan to take Skip's course whenever it is offered in the future, but in the meantime, I'd like to ask for suggestions on developing skills that will be beneficial when it comes time to build. I don't have any background in construction or home improvement, other than watching my dad as a kid. Despite that, I don't mind physical labor at all, I'm a fairly quick learner and an eager one as well.

I realize the best way to learn is by doing, perhaps I should look for people who may need a hand in home improvement tasks and are willing to teach? Any other suggestions? In the meantime, are there any particular books, videos, etc I should pick up?

Much thanks!

Matt

dbtoo
11-01-2007, 07:44 PM
Habitat for humanity can always use volunteers to build housing. you get the experience. ask questions of the builders.
Having a long term goal is great. You get to spend time planning, rehearsing what you will do. I'm still planning, and hoping.

Read everything you can. There are course materials throughout the web where you can find information about the building process (general building process.)

The class is well worth the time!

hawkiye
11-02-2007, 10:58 AM
Take the class ASAP and don't wait 5 to 10 years to build by then you get bogged down in day to day stuff maybe have a wife and kids which will make it much harder to get started. The class will change your life and teach you how to get out of fincanial bondage. They aren't kidding when they say it's better then a college education. It's not about just building a log home its about financial freedom and other freedoms. I wish I would have done it when I was 25.

They will teach you how to do this mortgage free and on a shoestring if you follow their advice. One book I would recommend is Thomas Elpel's Living Homes his website is http://www.hollowtop.com/ the book is in his grannys store link. But some good info on the site also.

Blayne