Mokuchi Studio Episode 5: Toby Hargreaves
5 snips
Sep 9, 2023 Toby Hargreaves, a skilled carpenter and founder of Bonny Doon Natural Builders, dives into his fascinating journey from Oakland to Bonny Doon. He shares insights from his intensive apprenticeship in Japanese carpentry, revealing how a barn-raising sparked his passion. Toby discusses the importance of hands-on workshops, the integration of natural building methods, and his unique approach to learning trades. With plans for a combined house and workshop, he reflects on his deep connection to nature and the crafts that inspire him.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Barn Raising Sparked A Career
- Toby first encountered timber framing at a volunteer barn raising with Carl and a group of helpers which blew his mind.
- That weekend led to a job offer and ultimately an apprenticeship with Santa Cruz Timber Frames.
An Informal Yet Deep Apprenticeship
- Toby's apprenticeship with Carl was informal but intense and lasted about six years.
- Carl shared as much traditional knowledge as possible though he couldn't fully replicate a Japanese apprenticeship here.
Why Classic Apprenticeship Is Hard To Copy
- Traditional apprenticeship in Japan can't be exactly replicated in the U.S. because of cultural and structural differences.
- Longer, immersive timeframes and starting younger historically made mastery possible.