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| Thatching and Framing Our Strawbale Studio was started in 1997 when we designed the structure to nestle between existing trees at the edge of a small meadow. The Dutch hip roof is a beautiful shape, and was commonly used on ancient structures throughout the world. With a focus on local materials and organic shapes, the fieldstone foundation was built from rocks on site, while the spruce logs were given to us by some folks clearing land for a new home nearby.  In the winter of 1997 - 1998 we collected reed grass (Phragmite), from nearby marshes. 1200 bundles were collected and used so far to thatch about 2/3's of the roof. 500 more will be gathered this winter and in the spring the roof will be completed.  The reed bundles are cleaned by hand or by using a combing technique. This picture shows participants at our one day Introduction to Thatching, April 25, 1998.  The flowing, sculptural roof was thatched by a group of 6 students lead by Master Thatchers Flemming Abrahamsson and Ole Hav, from Denmark (in cooperation with the Cob Cottage Co). This 12 day workshop, April 17-28 taught the basic techniques of Danish thatching.  
Students getting some "Hands On" experience in the basic techniques of thatching.
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