Basketry
Traditional Paper Rush Chair Seat Weaving
Course Overview
Most likely you’ve seen this type of weaving done on antique and flea market chairs and always wondered how it was done. In this two-day course you will learn how to weave the rush seat design pattern, which forms four distinct triangular envelope shapes that meet in the center. Students are encouraged to bring their own post and rail chair frame, but by prior arrangement, a vintage chair can be purchased from the instructor. You will be using a continuous strand of rolled paper rope, a product that was invented in the early 1900s and made to resemble the hand-twisted natural bulrush or cattail leaves found in older chair seats. The instructor will show you the tricks of the trade to speed and improve your weaving process. Take home a completed chair and a new interest. If your bring a chair, the paper rush material only will be approximately $25-$35, payable to the instructor. If purchasing a chair from the instructor, total material fee for the chair and material will be $75. Moderate hand strength is needed and there is repetitive movement with the technique.