Mastering a Twisted Tradition: The Art & Secret of Twisted Spires in Timber Framing
with Patrick Moore
July 7-11, 2025
$995.00
About This Workshop
Twisted spires, often deemed one of carpentry’s most intriguing mysteries, have a rich historical heritage primarily rooted in France. The term ‘flèche torse’ or ‘clocher tors’ has become synonymous with these unique architectural elements. A simple Google search in English may reveal limited information, with the Church of St. Mary and All Saints in Chesterfield, England, being a prominent example. However, delving into French resources unveils a plethora of twisted spires, with France boasting the most intricately twisted steeples, numbering 65. The debate on whether these twists were intentional or accidental fuels scholarly discussions. Some twisted spires were undeniably crafted with meticulous intent, often by the revered Compagnons, masters of their craft. These spires stand as testaments to the Compagnons’ exceptional skill and knowledge, defying conventional expectations of structural stability and precision. This specialized course explores the historical, cultural, and technical dimensions of twisted spires, offering a deep dive into their origins, craftsmanship, and the mysteries that surround them. In this unique opportunity, students, as a collective group, will unravel the mysteries and nuances of conceiving, constructing, and installing a twisted spire atop a preexisting post and beam gazebo at MASW. This ambitious endeavor represents a significant milestone—the second twisted spire to grace the Americas. This course is tailored for enthusiasts of timber framing, architectural history, and craftsmanship. It appeals to carpenters, architects, historians, and those curious about the fusion of artistry and structural ingenuity in historical and contemporary timber constructions.
Key Points
- Discover the ancient origins and cultural allure of twisted spires in timber framing.
- Crafting the second twisted spire in the U.S. by creating a twisted spire
- Unveil the genius of Les Compagnons in crafting extraordinary, twisted spires
- Discover how stereotomy, the precise cutting and shaping of timber, brings the enchanting twist to life in the spire’s construction
- Legends and Lore: Explore intriguing myths and tales surrounding twisted spires
- Future Architectural Visions: Gain inspiration to innovate and incorporate twisted spires into future timber-framed projects
Patrick Moore
Interested in learning more about the instructor and their workshops?
Get all the details about our Full Week Programs, including Tuesday night presentations, by visiting the Full Week Programs page.
$995.00