Cordon rush, also known as “wheat-wrapped” rush, is a thin, flat golden wheat fiber that is twisted around a bundle of straw or sedge, either in a factory or by hand. Typically, cordon rush was woven in a rush/envelope pattern and is found almost exclusively on country French chairs.
Composition
Golden wheat fiber
Handling Notes
- Often woven around flat, wide seat rails that curve outward and are notched to keep the material from slipping
- In France where they wrap as they go, the flat fiber can be dyed in bold colors creating a stunning result
- Not great for outdoor seating
Why is this material important to you?
The specificity of the material to French chairs illustrates how cultures adapted and innovated their practices. Denis Guein of France is worth checking out - he teaches classes as well.
In Use
Have you used this material?
Please contact Mellanee Goodman, Program Director, Curator, and Materials Specialist, to start a conversation about submitting your work for inclusion on this site.
mgoodman@centerforcraft.org