The twig chair is the hallmark project for someone who appreciates the traditional craft of twig furniture making.  In this course students will work with native alder and willow following a basic twig chair design that can be individualized with curved, bent, or straight twig furniture techniques. A harvesting field trip will provide an opportunity to gather some of the materials that will personalize each chair, in addition to providing a chance to learn to identify twig furniture materials. During the first day of class, students will construct a basic chair frame using materials provided by the instructor. On the following morning, students will take a field trip to identify brushwood species and to gather materials for the chair seat and back. By afternoon, students will start constructing the seat and back using gathered materials.  On day three, students will finish their chair and talk about other applications such as footstools, tables, etc.

Required Tools

• Sharp cross-cut saw or pruning saw
• Tape measure
• Utility knife
• 14-16 oz claw hammer
• Gloves
• Pencil
• Small brush clippers (bypass type)
• Large brush cutters (long handled lopping shears for cutting 1 1/2"-2" diameter branches)*

*this can be purchased locally in Grand Marais, if you would like to first consult the instructor about the specific tool you may need

Optional Tools

• Tool apron
• Safety glasses (provided, but you may prefer your own for fit and comfort)