Hand craft a unique folding medieval stool, using a blend of traditional and contemporary techniques and hand tools.

What's this course all about

On this very special & unique course you have the opportunity to hand craft your own medieval inspired folding stool. The design is inspired by what may be a unique medieval folding chair that can be seen in Dumfries museum, and may indeed be the only one ever made, and is certainly a very rare survivor (note, I run a separate two day course to make a folding medieval inspired chair). Each stool made will itself be unique, but its heritage will be clear. The folding frame, 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 (as in the original medieval chair), 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

Suitable for beginners or those with a little more experience. Minimum age 18 years, although a younger person may be suitable to attend if accompanied by a paying adult making their own stool - please speak to me before booking. As with all my courses private bookings are also available.

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.

Description supplied by the event organiser.