Matt Jackson

Matt Jackson began his construction career in 1972 working for a remodeling contractor. After a brief stint doing auto-body work on exotic and historic cars, he returned to framing and trimming high-end custom homes. When he’s not working, Matt tries to find time to hike, rock-climb, or ice-climb, and to travel with his wife Kathy. They live in the Black Hills of South Dakota in a home Matt built.

CNC-Manufactured Framing Replaces Site-Built Custom Dormers

Question: What do each of these carpentry disciplines have in common; millwork, windows, cabinets, doors and stairs? Answer: In the not-to-distant past, each of these tasks was performed on-site by…
Simple Instructions for How to Frame a Shed

Accurate wall layout and construction are key to building this sturdy shed project. Get insight into basic wall framing layout and assembly procedures using a SketchUp shed model to understand…
Begin With the End in Mind: Shed Layout and Floor Framing

Layout considerations begin before the first board is cut or fastener is driven. Beginning with the end in mind will assure optimal results for your shed project.
A Step Ahead to Build a Shed

Being a step ahead in building a simple shed can help speed up the process. A SketchUp model can give you that step ahead by clarifying the planning, parts and…
Graduate from a 3D Modeling Apprenticeship

Finish building 100 stackable sawhorses to complete your Introduction to 3D modeling and graddduate with a degree that's worth exactly what you paid.
A 3D Apprenticeship: Day Two

For an apprentice, building a set of sawhorses is a great way to learn use of basic tools to mark, measure and cut. It can teach a 3D modeller equally…
Carpenter’s Introduction to 3D Modelling

Are you intimidated by 3D modelling? Get past your initial hesitation and frustration by beginning with some basics. Begin your 3D apprenticeship by building a hundred horses.
Deck-Stair Layout 101

This video tutorial uses a SketchUp model to calculate stringer layout.
Exploring Octagonal Roof Framing with SketchUp

Watch this virtual tour of a typical stick-built octagonal roof.
Is Your Future Sketchy?

A New Year's resolution to learn how to use SketchUp for tackling project plans and design might be just the motivation needed to make your future a little less sketchy.

No results found.