* Please note, while this class is free to all attendees, the stool and all created materials will stay with Berea College. The college makes this piece and everything we make during the 3-day class will go towards the college’s sales efforts.
To summarize: The class and skills developed are free. Everything we make will stay with the college.
Description:
Made of ash or oak, which will come directly from our Berea College forest (and possibly the horse logging team). Much of traditional rural Appalachian furniture uses ornamentation and “extra” details sparingly. It’s likewise with the stool. The beads on the legs add some visual interest, though the maker can omit them if they prefer a cleaner looking stool.
This stool design in particular is influenced by the work of Chester Cornett and other traditional Kentucky chairmakers. In particular, a beautifully detailed tall stool gifted by Cornett to a KY author sparked the desire to create something similar.
Seating material of hickory bark is provided with the class. We will weave the seat (time permitting) on the final afternoon of the class.
In this class we’ll:
Split parts from a section of a log
Shape parts at the shavehorse with drawknives and spokeshaves
Make the seat rails – which will be heated/steamed and bent in a form
Drill out the leg angles using sight lines
Fit and assemble the stool
Discuss weaving materials options and finish choices (shown with a hickory bark seat)
A fully catered lunch is included and served every day and drinks and snacks are provided all day. Please let us know in advance of any special dietary needs. It is a good idea to make your lodging reservations well in advance.
