Tools and Trades

In this informational class, we'll introduce you to the complexities of how to hand weave a caned seat or how to insert a pressed seat.  Techniques for weaving fiber rush, flat and half round reed seats will be shown. Pattern samples and techniques used to accomplish a hand woven seat as well as functionalities of weave will be discussed. A demonstration of seat weaving, as well as advice on reparability of chairs will also be covered. As a one night face-to-face class will not be enough time to actually weave a chair seat since the process is quite time consuming even for the experienced weaver, advice will be given to you at this first night in order to begin your project. We will follow this up with three "1-hour Zoom workshop virtual meetings" to assist you with completing it by providing weaving advice, answers to weaving questions, and explaining techniques for preserving your chair.  Participants may bring a chair they want to work on at the first face-to-face informational class, and we will provide sources and a list of supplies from which to order the cane, reed, or fiber needed for their chair (the instructor will also make supply suggestions for best results to each participant).

This 18 hour (SMAW) course provides a basic foundation in welding techniques. Topics will include shop safety, striking an arc and welding flat and horizontal positions. If you want to check out welding as a new skill, this course is for you.  Welding gloves, safety glasses, and reinforced toe shoes are required. When enrolling, please complete both of the following:

Welding_Machine Reg Form

Barriers to Employment for Workforce Training according to ME Dept