We’re back from the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company’s seminar in Olympia, WA. Held June 25-26, it was a great event with lots of helpful information. We recommend it to anyone interested in tiny homes, especially if you want to build one of your own. Here are some of the things we appreciated most:

• Jay covers all the basics of how to build a tiny home. He tells you how to do it and what not to do so you don’t make the mistakes he’s made. He’s full of information about building codes, useful websites, the best materials to use, and timesaving steps. He goes into the details about each type of appliance you might need and how to handle toilets, gray water, electrical, and more.

• Jay’s passion really comes through when he talks about design. He explains how the most important aspect in a home’s design is the occupant’s happiness. You’ll learn to think about “what makes me happy?” and “what don’t I need?” He discusses how to edit out everything unnecessary with design so you’re only left with what you need.

• Jay emphasizes that “building green” is not about building with green components, although that’s a good thing when it’s possible. Truly building green is taking design down to its essence and living with less.

• We loved the friendly atmosphere at the workshop. People felt free to ask questions, and everyone was willing to share what they’ve learned. In addition to Jay, two other Tumbleweed team members attended, so there was plenty of one-on-one attention when it came time to review design and plans.

• Each day of the seminar ended with “field trips” to tiny homes in the Olympia area. We toured Dee Williams’ home – she was Jay’s first customer for house plans. We also saw a home in the process of being built, and visited another tiny home – Brittany’s Bayside Bungalow – that is actually available for rent!

Bottom-line, the seminar is all about inspiration. You’re in a room full of people who share your interest, and each one has something to offer. Not only do you learn a lot, it also reignites your passion. We recommend the seminar to anyone who’s interested in learning more about tiny homes. For a list of Jay’s upcoming seminars, visit Tumbleweed Tiny Homes.

We’re in Olympia for Jay Shafer’s Tumbleweed Tiny Houses workshop, and had the treat of connecting with Jay and his team, plus Dee Williams of Portland Alternative Dwellings. We enjoyed a great dinner talking about tiny homes and everything connected with them. Pictured: Jay, Dee, Steve, Sharon, and Takeshi.