Rush Weave Two Stools in One Day

Welcome to the wonderful world of rush weaving. In this one-day workshop, students will weave two stools of different materials. Both stools incorporate traditional rush patterning, but the results are completely different! Come explore this traditional seat weaving method that is adaptable to a variety of mediums.

In the morning, you will weave a corded wool stool. Corded Wool is a great class for first-timers to learn the skill of rush weave. The wool is colorful, tactile, and forgiving. It is easy to learn the concept of rush with this material. Because it is so warm and fuzzy, it is fun to work with, and there is a fast sense of accomplishment. Wool is available in many colors or natural.

In the afternoon, students will weave a natural rush stool. Rush is considered a pattern, not a material. Originally done in bullrush or cattail for centuries, sourcing that material is difficult. Pretwisted natural rush is a good alternative for antique and vintage chairs, or for seats with a natural feel. Newer chairs are commonly made with fiber rush, made of twisted paper. When you learn the steps to this pattern, you can use a variety of materials to complete your next project. You may notice furniture in design magazines or websites that have natural rush chairs, headboards or lower shelves of tables. We will learn on a small stool and have ideas on how to do your next project, like a trapezoidal seat on a chair. Learning the pattern is the first step.

Materials Fee: $140 paid directly to the instructor. Fee covers stool frames plus 30 yards of wool and enough natural rush to complete your second stool.

Special Tools or Equipment to bring: Scissors or clippers of your choice.

Workshop and Cancellation Policies: Please be sure to read our 2026 policies before registering for a workshop. https://www.sanbornmills.org/workshop-policies/