Stories from the woods and workshop

The mill in action

The saw mill is the start of the process for all our timberworks. When its running well it is very satisfying, with each cut opening up a new grain pattern. However each log needs to be put on with the tractor, moved around with levers, each cut moved off the mill into a stack, and the blades changed and sharpened regularly. Its a big job!

Meet the timber frame joints

  • Mortice and tenon

  • Spline

  • Scarf

  • Brace

The last Elm

Dutch Elm Disease has killed off almost all the Elms in the UK. Being so far north we are lucky that the disease has taken so long to get up here.

While it poses no danger to humans, it means that there will be no mature elm trees for several centuries until resistant varieties have fully grown.

Dead Elms have to be taken down as they become a danger. A lot of this Elm is simply split for firewood. At 66 Gartymore Timberworks we try and rescue as much of this as we can, because it is too special just to be burnt!

The grain figuring is amazing, and the colours can include green and purple. Its not easy to work with this crazy grain, but the results are worth it.

Culbokie Community Shelter

In 2022 Culbokie Community Trust commissioned a shelter for their new garden. This was a big project with six months of preparing the timber, digging foundations, building the frame, a community raising, and then putting on a turf roof. The shelter is now in weekly use for events, volunteer gatherings and visits.

Client

Culbokie Community Trust

Cost

£29,400

Meet the carpentry joints

  • Finger joint

  • Wedged tenon

  • Dovetail

  • Screw and plug

The humble bow tie

Designed for you

Our small projects are ready to buy, but anything larger needs to fit to you and your needs.

We can make window surrounds or bathroom units to fit your space, or we can go big with staircases, kitchens or timber frames for your house.