After six months or more of failed efforts to fit a decent floor plan into a sensible frame layout, everything finally clicked yesterday. Working from a simple 38 x 36 layout ( 4 bents with the 3 bays spaced at 12ft, 14ft and 12 ft, and 3 bays deep, each at 12ft) the floor plan seemed to drop right into space without a single stray column sticking up in the middle of a closet or shower. Even the second floor layout fell right into place.

(keeping things simple, symmetrical and ‘within the lines” was done to keep construction costs reasonable; not because I’m obsessive about symmetry or orderliness…)

OK, so I’ve got a column layout, a general idea of the bent positioning and a fairly detailed floor plan. What are the next steps, and how much farther can a novice timber frame ‘wannabe’ go before handing the design over to a structural engineer? Or am I done and its time to bring in someone who knows what the heck he's doing?

If you haven't already, you should draw it in 3D (or at least visualize it in 3d). It will help you find any conflicts (for example, stair head heights).

The first thing that popped into my head though was to check the mechanicals, especially plumbing. Make sure vents and traps aren't in the middle of the living room. Make sure you run the plans by all of your subs so they can point out any code or installation issues.

I'm at about the same stage. I learned Google Sketchup and drew up 3-D diagrams which I keep on my google page. Then I contacted the engineer and had something on-line that he could access and get a great visual for what we are doing. I tried to calculate loads, but found it was beyond my abilities so that's when I finally called an engineer.

Does your state require an engineer stamp for residential? If it doesn't build what has worked in the past. Saltbox?

You're probably better off doing as much ground work before going to see an engineer. If you do decide to go to an engineer, make sure that they specialize in traditional joinery when building with large timber. You could also look at some of the larger timber framing design/build companies to hire for consulting regarding the design, structural sizing and possibly a reasonably priced engineer.

Either way, to achieve constructing a frame the way you imagine it to be, avoid the professionals with minimal experience regarding your build and you should be able to keep yourself on budget and time.