Wrap it and stuff it.....

After ten complete wraps around the footstool, I like to start stuffing the space created between the top layer and the bottom layer.  You can use several items for stuffing .  I used triangular pieces of cardboard with this project, but you can also use kraft brown paper (the type used for brown lunch bags).  Crumple it up real well before using it for stuffing.  It makes it easier to use.  I have seen seats stuffed with straw, pieces of cloth, and even the moss from a Cyprus tree.  After every ten wraps or so, stuff the space to keep the seat firm.  Coninue wrapping and stuffing until you run out of space on the side rails.

Over and under and over and under, across and over and under and over......

I like to do a wrap of the rush cord completely around the stool and then come back and pull everything tight, clamping off on the back rail.    

So, wrap the cord over the top of the front rail at the far left and come under, up through the center of the stool. 

Next, wrap the cord over the top of the left rail come under, up through the center of the stool. 

Next, go across the front of the stool and wrap the cord over the top of the right rail at it's very end.  Come under and up through the center of the stool.  Then, go over the top of the front rail, at it's far right end, and under and up through the center of the stool, across to the back rail at it's far right end.  Go over the top of the back rail at it's far right end, coming up through the center of the stool and then over the top of the right rail at it's very top.  Now, go under the right rail and across the back of the stool to the top of the left rail.  Wrap over the top of the left rail, under and up through the center of the stool, then over the top of the back rail next to where you tied off to start.  Come up through the center of the stool.  Now that you have made a complete wrap, go back and pull the rush cord as tight as possible all the way around. Clamp off your first run on the back rail. 

Repeat the process for ten (10) complete wraps.

Let's go !

Since this a perfectly rectangular stool, it won't be necessary to do any filler work.  Let's get started by tying off the fiber rush cord to the back rail in the far left corner.



Add a roll of fiber rush and a few extra tools...

Now that the foot stool is clean and free of all obstacles, add a roll of #5 kraft brown fiber rush and the following additional tools:  a quick release hand clamp ( your most important tool for this job), an awl,  a flat head screwdriver with a large head, and a small hammer.  Get ready.  Get set.....



Clean it up...

Now that you have removed the old seat, it's time to remove any old tacks or nails.  Check to make sure are the rails are free froom cracks or splits.  Glue any loose rails and wipe everything down with a damp cloth.



Cut from the inside...

Remove the old seat by using a cerated knife to cut through the old rush.  Cut along the inside of the rails of the stool.