Course description
This course is taught by a teacher with 30 years experience of teaching adults the techniques of chair caning and rushing. Bring a chair, frame, bedhead, cradle or stool which should be structurally sound, and preferably free of wood worm.
Beginners are advised to start with a simple shape, a square, rectangular, trapezium or bow-fronted if possible.
By the end of this course you will know:
- How to use and store tools safely.
- The Historical background of the crafts
- How to prepare a project, which includes:-
1 Recording any pattern and methods used on the old seating (if applicable)
2 Stripping, clearing and cleaning.
3 The preparation and harvesting of materials used in the class and where to source them.
4 Selecting the correct materials by size, quality and colour.
5 A choice of chair caning patterns to suit your project.
6 English traditional and Continental methods in rush.
7 How to seat a variety of shapes and curves.
8 Seating a stool in a variety of patterns and materials including seagrass and cords
Other techniques you will learn include:
Blind
Double
French caning
Close caning
Chair cane webbing
Machine-made sheet caning as used on some modern furniture not suitable for hand caning.
Course Structure:
This is a practical ‘hands-on’ course. Learners work on their own projects at their own pace in a congenial and industrious environment.
Individual and group teaching with demonstrations that are optional.
Students are advised to make personal notes by keeping a file on the techniques and methods used. Homework is given if requested and appropriate.
Course resources:
Books, handouts and samples A well stocked tool- box for students to use in the class Some storage space for projects Chair cane
Assessment:
Teacher feedback. Individual learning plans. Self-assessment using checklists. Learners are encouraged to help each other thereby reinforcing their new knowledge and skills
Next step:
Different patterns and shapes in the class; The Basketmaker’s Association’s Diploma in Chair Seating; working from home on commissions; the City & Guild’s Certificate in Basketry (which is a close allied subject).
