Please note: The process of weaving either real or fiber rush seats is approximately the same. You may find it easier if you print out the images and instructions shown on this page and place them in a folder or 3-ring binder for easier viewing as you work through your project.
The first thing to do is to measure the front and back space between the legs. Usually the front is wider than the back. If this is the case you will need to put in some side rows or equalizer rows.
Stable in place
These rows are stapled to the side dowel and woven to the other side and those are stapled off as well. These rows will look like the photo below. The staples shouldn’t be too long. You want to avoid splitting rails.
Staple starting ends in place
Continue weaving corners... Continue to weave the corners by putting these filler rows in until the distance between the strands equal the spacing between the back legs. They will look approximately like the photo in step 4. I say approximately, because your chair may have a slightly different shape.
I have positioned a square to the front rail to show how the filler side rows line up up with the rear. Those off-to-the side strands will be perpendicular to front and back. What is critical is for the spacing of the front rows to be right-on-accurate before you start weaving to the back rail.
Whenever you need to attach another piece of rush tie a square knot in the middle of a section. Pull it tight, and don’t worry it will be buried by the weaving.
Reach the ready to weave stage
As soon as you have reached that point (distance) shown above you are ready to start weaving the seat. Don’t worry about the sides, they are always the same distance.
To start the weaving staple (easiest) or tack the rush to the side dowel just like you did for the side rows. You can make the piece of rush you weave as long as you want. I usually make mine about 75 feet long. Weave the rush around the dowels like in the picture to the left going completely around in a counterclockwise direction. Leave the rush loose you will tighten later.
To start the weaving staple (easiest) or tack the rush to the side dowel just like you did for the side rows. You can make the piece of rush you weave as long as you want. I usually make mine about 75 feet long. Weave the rush around the dowels like in the picture to the left going completely around in a counterclockwise direction. Leave the rush loose you will tighten later.
