Oxfordshire Woodland Group

Hewing is an original traditional method of converting logs into beams in the woodland. This is done by setting the log up on transverse log or beam supports to which it is dogged to prevent movement during the hewing process. The dogs can be local blacksmith made with staple points or flat bladed as per Gransfors type dogs

The log is then scored to create notches every 12" or so taking care not to score below the level of the desired finished surface.

The "juggles" between each notch are removed using the scoring axe.

This leaves a fairly rough surface ready for finish hewing.

A side axe is then used to create a smooth flat surface.

The finished log should ideally be flat on 2 opposite faces though it might well rise along the length of the log to create a cambered beam

Ken Hume