We can replace the existing splint seat on your antique, or, if the chair is designed for it, put a splint seat on a chair that previously had a different seat. We normally use a 5/8" European Cut or "Best Quality" flat reed as our splinting material. If you prefer, we can also work with any of the flat reed sizes shown in the following picture:
This has the advantage of being considerably less expensive than natural Ash splints (although we can work with the Ash if you so desire). The natural Ash splints are available in the 1/4", 1/2", 5/8", or 1" widths.
In general, the seat frame should consist of four dowels that run from leg to leg, forming an open area where the seat will be. The splint is woven around the dowels, creating a pattern such as the one shown. The first picture below shows a chair frame without the seat, the second several lengths of flat reed, and the third a finished splint seat.
If you have this type of frame, it may have had a rush, splint, or shaker tape seat originally. These three seats all use the same frame style as a support. For examples of what rush or shaker tape look like, please review the
RUSHING or SHKER TAPE sections.
