Here's another review of our workshop. This one is from Darlene at SmallHouseLife.com where she believes less is really more, and enjoys living big in small spaces.

When I heard the Tumbleweed tiny house workshop was coming to Austin, TX, I had to go.  I joined about one hundred other eager participants who came from as far away as North Carolina, Oklahoma, California, and Indiana.

I really didn't know what to expect. I’m all for downsizing to a small house and was curious about learning to build a tiny house.  But what I didn’t anticipate was that I’d walk away with far more than just the knowledge of how to build my own little home. Yes, we received Step by Step Instructions on how to build a tiny house. Our instructor, Jay Shafer,  took us through the entire building process starting with the 14 essential tools to use, and encouraged questions as he went along.. He was very personable, and accessible throughout our two day class.

We even got a comprehensive workbook which I plan to hang onto as a handy reference guide.  It’s chock full of pertinent building codes, house size limits, appliance size, tiny house building instructions with pictures.

What I didn’t expect, and found fascinating, was when Jay lectured on form and design.  He detailed the Seven Principles of Minimal Design which included ‘Simplicity’ and ‘Honesty.’ Honesty in relation to building a house?  Yes!  I will never look at a house in the same way again.

Then we were given the opportunity to design our own tiny house and share it with the group for feedback.  This was a learning experience all in itself because we had quite a creative group.  It was enlightening to see the wide range of houses designed with what each person found important in their lives.  Me?  I was trying to figure out how to include a washer and dryer (you think I’m kidding!), while another didn’t include a shower in his tiny house.

I should also note that while we were designing our houses, Jay was sitting down one on one with those who wanted design help, and Steve (should we say Jay’s business partner here?) was answering specific building questions.

Another unexpected takeaway was the networking.  It was priceless because we got to meet people from every area of the tiny house revolution. Phone numbers and emails were exchanged between those interested in tiny house communities, or people who might build together, or share tools..

Definitely, two enlightening, fun days full of learning.

Sign up for our current workshops here.