Rush seating in Britain can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Since then a wide range of materials, like straw, seagrass, cords, and whole or skeined (split) willow have all been used to make stools and chairs more comfortable.

Split cane (from a tropical climbing plant) first appeared here in the 17^th Century in exotic chairs and the techniques were gradually refined using methods developed in continental Europe.

All these types of seating increased and declined in popularity with changes in furniture tastes, and by the end of World War II there were very few skilled craftspeople left.

In the last 25 years there has been a revival of interest in Cane, Rush and other seating materials, and an increasing number of people with skills to make repairs. Many chair-seating businesses are now flourishing. Courses in all types of Chair Seating are provided by the Basketmakers' Association.

Find a Chairseater using the online Business Register

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