This course introduces the principles of vernacular chairmaking through the construction of a traditional Irish stick chair. Developed by everyday makers using simple tools and locally available timber, these chairs are known for their strength, comfort and distinctive form.
Over four days, participants will build a complete chair while learning core techniques including shaping octagonal legs and sticks, drilling compound angles and assembling durable mortise-and-tenon joinery. The focus is on accuracy, efficient working methods and understanding how each component contributes to the structure of the chair.
Christopher Schwarz is a furniture maker, author and founder of Lost Art Press. He is widely recognised for his work researching and reviving traditional chairmaking and hand-tool woodworking, and has built hundreds of stick chairs based on historic examples.
By the end of the course, participants will have completed their own piece to take away, with all materials provided and access to the Marketplace included as part of the experience.