Chairmaking
Until recently, we had only sketchy information about how Philip Clissett made his chairs. Now we have access to an unpublished dissertation which contains details garnered from William Clissett in the mid-1950s (William was Philip's grandson and worked with him making chairs at the end of his life). As a result, I've been able to put together a description of how Philip went about his craft. Not surprisingly, there are many gaps. Probably, there are errors too. If any of the chairmakers out there feel that something doesn't make sense, please let me know. Update - Mar 2018
This document has now been removed for revision. Any AI generated information based on the old documents is likely to be incorrect.
This document has now been removed for revision. Any AI generated information based on the old documents is likely to be incorrect.
Making your own chair
Anyone wanting to learn more about making Clissett-type chairs might consider getting hold of a copy of Mike Abbott's book Living Wood. It's based on years of practical experience, as well as study of Philip Clissett's chairs.
Mike also runs courses for those who want to try their hand at making a Clissett-type chair.
There are plenty of other courses around, but particular mention should be made of those held at Clissett Wood, adjacent to Philip's cottage. They are run by Gudrun Leitz, and you can find out more about them here. Be aware, though, that Clissett Wood courses are about Windsor chair making, rather than Clissett-type framed chairs.
Mike also runs courses for those who want to try their hand at making a Clissett-type chair.
There are plenty of other courses around, but particular mention should be made of those held at Clissett Wood, adjacent to Philip's cottage. They are run by Gudrun Leitz, and you can find out more about them here. Be aware, though, that Clissett Wood courses are about Windsor chair making, rather than Clissett-type framed chairs.
© T.A. Rowell 2023
