Medieval inspired Folding Chair

What’s this course all about

On this very special two day course you have the opportunity to hand craft your own medieval inspired folding chair. The design is based on a unique example that can be seen in Dumfries museum, and may be indeed be the only one ever made, and is certainly a very rare survivor. Quite roughly made from what appears to be oak, with a raw hide strung seat, I would think it was not made by a skilled carpenter, but perhaps a woodsman, farmer or other such person, and it’s this unique aspect that give it a rustic fascination and mystery.

Each chair made will itself be unique, but its heritage will be clear. The folding frame, back rails, seat rails, pivot rail, will be made from locally sourced hard wood poles with hand carved round tenons secured into individual round mortice holes using oak dowels. And rather than using rawhide for the strung seat, you will use natural jute cordage.

My workshop is situated in Ghyll wood on the fabulous Wyresdale Park estate. We will aim to work outside in the woods, but can make use of our indoor space if the weather dictates, and a wood-burner will keep us warm on colder days.

What you need to know

What you need to know

Suitable for beginners or those with a little more experience. Minimum age 18 years.

Start time each day, 10am, finish time 5pm, although we may finish earlier on day two.

Please wear clothing that is suitable for the expected weather conditions and that you don’t mind getting a little messy, and good fitting, sturdy footwear with a grippy sole.

Snacks and refreshments will be provided on the day, and you can get take out drinks from the café. Please bring your own lunch – the Apple Store Café is just a few metres away and makes excellent food, it can get quite busy, but you can order your lunch to bring back to the workshop if you wish (you will not have time for a sit in lunch at the café). Please note that toilets are situated up by the café.

Origianl medieval folding chair in Dumfries musem.