{7/27-29} Build a Wooden Tent Frame Camp (Part 1)

Ages 8+ | July 27–29 | 9:00am–12:00pm
Taught by Johanna Buchert Smith

In this hands-on woodworking camp, students will design and build their own collapsible wooden tent frame—a sturdy, functional structure designed for imaginative play.

Over three mornings, campers will learn basic woodworking skills while working carefully with real tools and materials. Each student will construct a simple wooden frame that folds down for easy storage and can be transformed into a tent or play space using a sheet, fabric, or blanket at home.

This camp focuses on building a strong foundation—both literally and skill-wise—and is designed as Part 1 of a two-part tent-making experience. A companion camp later in the week will offer students the opportunity to create and embellish a custom fabric tent cover, though each camp may be taken independently.

What We’ll Explore

• Basic woodworking skills and shop safety
• Measuring, assembling, and fastening wood
• Understanding structure, balance, and stability
• Building something functional for imaginative play

Project

Each camper will build a collapsible wooden tent frame to take home. The finished frame can be used on its own or paired with a handmade tent cover from the companion camp.

Camp Details

• Dates: July 27–29
• Time: 9:00am–12:00pm
• Ages: 8+
• Instructor: Johanna Buchert Smith
• Format: 3-day summer camp
• Class Size: Limited enrollment

Pricing

• Supply Fee: $30

The supply fee includes all wood, hardware, and materials needed to build and take home the tent frame.

Good to Know

• No prior woodworking experience is required
• Campers will use real tools with close supervision
• Closed-toe shoes are required
• Finished frames are lightweight, collapsible, and easy to transport