So I'm building an authentic Gustav Stickley rocking chair designed in the 1920's and decided to tackle the job myself of weaving the rush seat. I've never done rush weaving before and was looking for some advice:
1) Materials - After a bit of research I'm thinking about using a natural seagrass rush to keep this as original as possible. I've made a considerable effort to use authentic materials and finishing methods and it just seems right to use the natural rush. My only concern is durability and my question is how well will this material wear versus fiber rush?
2) Weaving - Since I've never done weaving before, but I watched a couple of Youtube videos and it looks like it's a fairly straight forward process. Is there a single resource you recommend for a first-time natural rush seat weaver that clearly demonstrates the process, techniques, pitfalls etc.?
3) Finishing - Once I've got the weaving done (OK so I'm jumping way ahead here...) do you recommend an oil-urethane based finish or something else as a protective topcoat? Will that interfere with the normal "yellowing" of the natural rush?
Kevin, Here are some more hints and tips that you might find helpful when just beginning to learn how to weave a paper rush seat. It's a blog post I made a year or so ago on that very topic. Sorry,... more
Hi Kevin, Nice to see you here on the forum, welcome! Where are you located? I believe you should rethink the use of the natural pre-twisted rush in favor of the paper fiber, which was the material... more
Cathryn, Thanks for the well wishes, I'm located next door in Wisconsin. I had no idea the paper fiber rush was used at the Stickley factories, as my impression was that this was a recent invention.... more
You're welcome Kevin! Where a bouts are you located in Wisconsin? And can you come to our 5th Annual Gathering of The SeatWeavers' Guild at Old World Wisconsin in Eagle on August 3, 4 & 5th to meet... more
I'm in the Milwaukee area, not far from Old World WI. The event looks like fun, but unfortunately I''ll be traveling that weekend. Next time. I'll let you know after I get a chance to read more on... more
Kevin: I have somethings I've posted on my Blog that maybe of some help to you. http://the--chairman.blogspot.com/ and I also did a series of pictures in my Rush photo Album on my Facebook page... more
Hi Jim, I appreciate the links provided and will study them to better understand the process. I really like the simple look of the woven reed seat on your rocker, and will think about that for the... more
on the last big set of G. Stickley chairs I did it was 5/32 paper rush as well as the foot stools I have done so far. Craig Phillips B & C Emporium antiques and original hardware http://www.b-c-e.biz ... more