Hewing, as a method of conversion, was used extensively across the globe with regional variations. Methods, techniques and tools vary based on the timber species used and local craft styles employed. All craftsmen differ in their methods and techniques but essentially a hewer will mark out the required dimensions, notch out the timber and remove excess until the desired result is achieved.
Hewing was the predominant form of timber conversion in medieval England with its peak of skill level occurring in the mid-14th Century. This resulted in box-heart (hewn on four sides) being the most common type of conversion used between the 13th and 15th Centuries, with pit sawing not becoming common until the 15th Century opening the way for an increased level of halved timbers (timbers hewn on four sides and then sawn through middle). In the 16th Century the practice extended to converting larger diameter trees by first hewing them square and then sawing into quarters or smaller fractions.
The use of hewn native timber in our vernacular buildings has provided a distinctive heavy structural style that works in harmony with our building materials.
In the UK, the move from hand tools to mechanised methods of conversion was caused by several factors; the decline in native oaks, the increase of softwood and the increased availability of saws and saw mills. The craft was lost although maintained in Europe, predominantly in the East.
In the 1990s a group of carpenters, now known as the Carpenters’ Fellowship, started a timber framing revival. Part of their extensive research was to do experimental archaeology using all known evidence on the subject, in particular drawing on evidence direct from timber surfaces and historical drawings of carpenters in action. Research examined timbers from buildings for evidence, with particular attention paid to the use of level marks, notches, and surface finishes to deduce the theory behind the traditional methods used. The theories were tested using experimental archaeology and working with continental hewers. Their endeavours form the basis of known hewing techniques in the UK today.
Since the 1990s there have been a few training courses and opportunities to pass on skills. The Weald and Downland Open Air Museum hosted a series of courses in the late 1990s and subsequently the Carpenters’ Fellowship have offered volunteer events providing hands-on training and experience (Cressing Temple 2008, Bucklers Hard 2014, Oxford 2019, Andover 2021).
Hewing is the craft of converting tree trunks into structural members using traditional hand tools alone as part of the pre-framing process. Hewing allows for the maximum amount of timber to be used for structural members with the minimum waste. It is particularly useful for converting timbers with a natural camber and in awkward locations. It is the most environmentally effective method of conversion possible and aids in woodland management.
There are many regional variations and differences in technique depending on the species of timber.
Hewing is a sub-craft of timber framing.
There are no formal training options for hewing alone but some craftspeople may offer short courses. The Carpenters’ Fellowship demonstrate hewing and other skills at events and share skills amongst members.
Post Graduate Study
The Weald and Downland Museum offers two Master’s Degree programmes in Building Conservation and Timber Building Conservation. As part of this course students will study the practical and theoretical aspects of hewing amongst other timber framing skills.
N.B. Please note that none of the names here stipulate earning their sole income, or even a substantial part of their income, from hewing.
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