Overview
This is a 2 day course aimed at those who are new to chair caning or have some basic experience of the craft. It is suitable for both those who make new furniture, and those who have a restoration project in mind.
Course Description
The tuition is over 2 days between 9.30am and 5.00pm. You will be taught in a small group of up to 8 people by Brian Crossley MBE, a second generation Chair Caner who has practised the craft for over 60 years.
Working on a pre-made frame which represents a typical chair seat (as the attached picture), you will be taught the ‘6 way pattern’ which is used on 95% of all caned furniture.
Day 1
The first day begins with a presentation and discussion, to give participants a good understanding of the history of the craft, materials, tools, techniques and other caning patterns.
After this, participants begin the practical part of the workshop. All materials and comprehensive course notes will be provided, plus the loan of any tools required.
Caning a frame can be undertaken seated and to assist in handling the frame, this will be held in an adjustable clamp attached to a table. (see note below)
Safety is important. All measures will be taken to promote the safe use of hand tools and participants will be supervised at all times.
Day 2
Continue caning the frame as on Day 1 . If time permits, you will be able to weave an alternative pattern on another smaller frame. Completed frame(s) and notes can be retained.
P lease note - Participants are welcome to bring an item of furniture. Please email images of the piece to highgrove@kings-foundation.org so we can assess the work needed to it.
Who is the course/workshop for?
This course is suitable for beginners through to intermediate learners. Those with some existing experience may well progress quicker through the first day of experiments.
How many people can attend?
5 places are available
What days do I attend?
10th - 11th October 2024
Where will this course/workshop take place?
Highgrove Traditional Crafts, Doughton, Tetbury, GL8 8TQ
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing that you are happy to work practically in. We recommend that you avoid wearing loose sleeves or loose jewellery.
Accessibility:
Our buildings at Highgrove Traditional Crafts are listed historic buildings so we do have some accessibility challenges. If you have any accessibility requirements please do email us on highgrove@princes-foundation.org and we will do our utmost to accommodate everyone.
Covid-19 guidelines:
Your health and safety are our number one priority. We will provide a detailed briefing to students on current COVID-19 measures before attending the course.
Terms & conditions:
The Prince’s Foundation reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
Our normal terms and conditions apply, with the addition of the following:
Please don't attend if you feel unwell or have COVID-19 symptoms. We will be happy to refund your fee, or put your fee towards a course on a future date in the next 12 months if we are unable to hold a session in person due to a change in conditions, e.g. another UK lockdown, this course cannot be held online.
Tutor biography:
Brian is a professional Chair Caner with over 60 years experience, who also restores furniture using Seagrass, Danish Cord, Pre-twisted Rush and Riempe. Brian is a member of the Worshipful Company of Baskemtmakers and was awarded an MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours 2020.
Based in Chester, Brian teaches locally and at many other locations. Commissions are undertaken from anywhere in the UK, ranging from family items to Museum quality furniture.
Visits to his workshop can be made by arrangement.
