Most of today’s home building is strictly production work. Many of the details and skills of the master carpenter are lost in the rush. As a second-generation builder and trim carpenter, Gary has over 35 years of experience creating the details that make the difference between ordinary and extraordinary. In this class students will work in teams on several projects. Gary will share the steps he uses to build the mantles that have become one of his trademarks. Today many homes have windows and doors that should be finished with curved trim. Students will learn the right way to cut and fit joints in elliptical, eyebrow and circle top casing trim. The staircase is often the first item a visitor sees in the home. Gary will give his secrets for building beautiful, safe stairways that make a great first impression. One of a trim carpenter’s most important jobs is door hanging. Real door hanging is much more than installing a pre-hung door. Gary will show how to mortise hinges and bore for the doorknob, and will reveal his tricks for installing and trimming so that the door glides shut. Crown molding is the most dramatic and challenging type of trim. Students will practice cutting crowns by starting with single basic crown installation and move on to intricate coffered and beamed ceilings. Gary is well known for the trim details he creates with frame and panel construction featuring pocket screw joinery, including wainscoting, pilasters, and posts. He will share his top 25 favorite trim tricks for making a big impression on a limited budget. During the week he will discuss coped joints and will show how to get the best cuts with a miter saw, install baseboards and use a block plane to fit trim joints. If you have ever wondered what separates fine home builders from the rest, it is all in the details of the interior. Gary has been on the cover of Fine Homebuilding more than any other builder, and it is because his workmanship is simply the best!