Carpentry in Germany is one of the oldest and most traditional and respected trades and guild. Many of our current customs and buildings techniques can be traced back almost 700 years.  Quality workmanship is the core of this guild.

To become a Master Carpenter in Germany, one has to first complete his/her education as a craftsman. Then, he/she leaves home to apprentice with Master Carpenters for 3 years and 1 day.  They are not allowed to return home during that time or be married and have children.  It is a time to live very simply, traveling around on foot and acquiring expert building and life experiences.   These young apprentices are called Journeymen.

Journeymen have a special look that designates their craft and place in the carpentry guild.  They are to wear a special uniform during this training, carry their own carpentry tools, a journal, and they live out of a backpack.

If you are interested in learning more about the customs of a Journeyman and Master Carpenter, Click the link below:

http://www.en.charpentiers.culture.fr/thepeople/compagons/thecarpentersguildingermany