STICK - 2024

Children's chair in red cedar, vernacular tradition

The stick chair emerged in rural Ireland and England starting in the 17th century, before being exported to the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries. Crafted by rural artisans using available materials and simple hand tools, this popular traditional form is the direct precursor to Windsor chairs. Its structure, built on robust through-joinery, has crossed centuries without major formal change.

The Lost Art Press heritage (Stick chair)

Christopher Schwarz's book, The Stick Chair Book published by Lost Art Press, provided the framework, proportions, joinery logic, and spirit of the Irish-American model. A documented foundation, adapted here to a scale for children aged two to six. The book is freely available as a PDF on the publisher's website, a rare commitment to knowledge sharing worth highlighting.

Raw material and local upcycling

The raw material is red cedar (Thuja plicata), sourced from offcuts from a carpenter on the Basque Coast. A North American timber, lightweight and naturally rot-resistant, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The softness of the wood requires razor-sharp tools to prevent tear-out during shaping. Its natural oils protect it through the seasons without chemical treatment. The clear Rubio Monocoat oil finish leaves the wood as it is, highlighting its warm tone and tight grain.

Between vernacular chair and cabinetmaking

Traditionally, stick chairs are made from green wood: as the tenons dry inside their mortises, they lock naturally. Here, the wood used was dry—an adaptation relying on classic cabinetmaking techniques.

The backrest spindles are turned on a wood lathe, as are the faceted legs, which are joined to the seat with cylindrical mortise and tenon joints. No nails, no screws, no hardware: some assemblies are secured with wooden pegs.

STICK is a limited series of four pieces, entirely crafted in my workshop. The initial series, priced at €250 each, is now sold out. You can explore available studio pieces in the limited editions section.

Quentin Delion is a woodworker and designer based in Bidart, in the Basque Country. To discuss a custom furniture project, feel free to use the contact form.