Learn to Tape a Shaker Chair in Canterbury, NH
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals with basic hand-eye coordination and the ability to sit and focus for several hours.
Overview
Discover the art of taping a Shaker chair seat with expert guidance at Canterbury Shaker Village. Perfect for craft enthusiasts wanting a hands-on experience, bring your chair or help retape one onsite.
Learn to Tape a Shaker Chair
Saturday, August 16, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
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About This Adventure
Join a hands-on workshop to learn the art of Shaker chair weaving! Under the guidance of expert Dick Bennett, you'll prepare a chair frame, calculate tape needs, and create a beautiful seat. Bring your own chair or help retape a reproduction, and take home a toolkit to continue your crafting journey.
If you’ve ever thought, it would be fun to tape or re-tape your own Shaker chair – this is the workshop for you! Have you ever wondered how the Shakers wove those elegant chair seats without any ends showing?
You’ll learn to prepare a chair frame, calculate the quantity of tape required, plan a weaving pattern & tape the seat. You’ll even get a tool kit to take home!
Please bring your own suitable chair frame, which should have round-seat rails. If you don’t have a chair frame, you can help us retape one of the Village's reproduction chairs.
Students should also bring material for taking notes and chair tape. Chair tape may be ordered through shakersworkshops.com.
Instructor Dick Bennett was drawn to Canterbury Shaker Village in 2004 by his lifelong interest in woodworking. He has since served as a Museum interpreter, Shaker craft demonstrator, and workshop leader.
Adventure Tips
Bring Your Own Chair Frame
If you want a fully personalized experience, bring your own Shaker chair frame to work on during the session.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Dress in layers and wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dusty, as chair taping involves close hands-on work.
Arrive Early to Settle In
Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before the workshop starts to settle in and get comfortable with your workspace.
Prepare for Fine Motor Skill Use
This workshop requires patience and hand dexterity—bring reading glasses if needed for close work.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern chipmunks
- Red-tailed hawks
History
Canterbury Shaker Village preserves one of the best examples of Shaker craftsmanship and community life, dating back to the early 1800s.
Conservation
The village implements sustainable practices to protect its historic buildings and natural surroundings, promoting responsible tourism and preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Concord
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Seating Cushions
Helps maintain comfort during the extended seated workshop sessions.
Reading or Craft Glasses
Assists with detail work during the taping process.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust to changing temperatures inside and outside the workshop.
spring specific
Personal Chair Frame
Bringing your own chair allows you to complete a chair important to you.