Picture this: you’ve just hiked miles into the wilderness, the sun is beginning to set, and you’re getting ready to set up camp for the night. You feel the fatigue start to creep into your muscles, and you realize you have nowhere to sit or rest. That’s where a bushcraft chair or bench comes in handy. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make a bushcraft chair or bench, unravel interesting facts about bushcraft, and answer commonly asked questions about bushcraft.
What is Bushcraft.
Bushcraft is the art and skill of surviving and thriving in the natural environment using only the resources around us. It’s an all-encompassing term that includes a diverse range of survival skills, from fire making and shelter building to foraging for food and crafting tools from natural materials.
Bushcraft skills are not only vital for survival in the wilderness but also enable you to engage with the natural world on a deeper level. It is a way of life for many people, with 97% of bushcraft practitioners reporting that the activity significantly improves their mental health and 88% stating that it enhances their physical wellbeing.
The Importance of a Bushcraft Chair or Bench
One of the skills involved in bushcraft is being able to create useful items from natural materials. A bushcraft chair or bench is one such item. Not only does it provide a comfortable place to sit and rest after a long day of hiking or hunting, but it can also serve as a useful tool for various activities such as cooking, crafting, or just enjoying the beauty of nature.
I remember a camping trip where we forgot to pack our collapsible chairs. After a long day of woodland exploration, we all craved a proper place to sit, relax, and enjoy our campfire dinner. Luckily, we knew how to make a bushcraft chair. We gathered some sturdy branches, lashings from our pack, and in no time, we had our rest spots. That experience truly emphasized the importance and practicality of a bushcraft chair or bench.
Ready to Make Your Own Bushcraft Chair or Bench.
Now that you understand what bushcraft is and the importance of a bushcraft chair or bench, you’re probably eager to start creating your own. But before we get into the step-by-step guide, we’ll need to gather our materials, and, of course, you’ll need to equip yourself with a little patience.
In the next part of this article, we will delve more into the materials required in making a bushcraft chair or bench and provide a detailed guide on how to create one. We will also share some engaging statistics, interesting facts about bushcraft, and mention an expert who can guide you further in your bushcraft journey.
So stay tuned.
Materials Needed in Making a Bushcraft Chair or Bench
Before you dive into crafting your own bushcraft chair or bench, let’s talk about the materials you’ll need. The real beauty of bushcraft lies in its resourcefulness—using what nature provides and supplementing with just a few essentials from your pack. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll want on hand:
1. Wood (Branches and Poles):
This is the backbone of your chair or bench. Aim for sturdy, green wood—something like hazel, ash, or willow works brilliantly. Green wood is less likely to snap under your weight and is easier to work with for lashing and shaping. How much do you need. For a simple tripod chair, you’ll want three straight poles about 1. 2 meters (4 feet) long and one shorter crosspiece. For a longer bench, shoot for thicker logs and at least two to four support poles.
2. Cordage:
You can use natural fibers (think roots, vines, or strips of inner bark) or bring some strong paracord or bank line from home. If you’re feeling adventurous, try crafting your own cordage on-site from the inner bark of willow or nettle stems; it’s a fantastic skill to practice. You’ll need enough to securely lash your joints—typically 2-3 meters (6-10 feet) is plenty for a single chair.
3. Cutting Tool:
A folding saw or a sturdy bushcraft knife is essential for cutting branches to length and notching ends for joints. If you have an axe or hatchet, even better—just be sure you’re comfortable using it safely in the field.
4. Optional Comfort Add-ons:
For extra comfort, gather some green leaves, moss, or grass to pad your seat.
A spare jacket, tarp, or even a dry bag can also double as a cushion or backrest.
Alternatives:
No cordage. Try flexible green wood, such as willow, for natural lashing. No saw or axe. You can sometimes break smaller branches over a rock or use a sharp-edged stone. Remember, bushcraft is all about improvisation.
Step-by-step Guide on Making a Bushcraft Chair or Bench
Once you’ve gathered your materials, it’s time to get crafting. Let’s walk through making a classic bushcraft tripod chair, which is a favorite among campers for its simplicity and comfort. Here’s how you can do it, step by step:
1. Gather and Prepare Your Poles:
Find three straight, sturdy branches about 4 feet long and 1-2 inches thick. Cut or break them to similar lengths. For the seat, use a fourth branch or strong stick about 1. 5 feet long.
2. Create the Tripod:
Lay the three long poles side by side. About 6 inches from one end, lash them together tightly with your cordage using a tripod lashing (wrap the cord around all three several times, then frap between each pole to cinch it tight). Stand the assembly up and spread the legs into a stable tripod.
3. Attach the Seat Support:
Lash the shorter branch horizontally between two of the tripod legs, about 1. 5 feet above the ground.
This will be your seat. Make sure it’s secure by wrapping your cordage tightly and tying it off with a strong knot.
4. Optional: Add Comfort and Stability:
If you want a bit more comfort, lay your jacket, tarp, or a bundle of soft leaves and grass over the seat support. For stability, wedge the tripod legs into the ground or place rocks at the base.
5. Test and Adjust:
Carefully sit down and test your chair. If it wobbles, reinforce the lashings or adjust the angle of the legs. Remember, safety first—if something feels off, tweak it until you feel confident.
For a Bench:
If you’re making a bench, follow a similar process but use two parallel logs as supports and a wide, flat log or a series of smaller branches lashed together for the seat. Lash everything securely, and check for stability before use.
Pro Tip:
Always check the strength of your wood and the tightness of your lashings. Nature’s furniture isn’t as forgiving as your living room recliner.
Statistics: The Rise of Bushcraft and Outdoor DIY
Bushcraft is no longer a niche hobby—it’s become a global phenomenon. Recent data from the Outdoor Industry Association shows that, as of 2023, over 52 million Americans participated in at least one wilderness camping or bushcraft-related activity. A survey by Bushcraft Journal found that nearly 68% of bushcraft enthusiasts regularly build their own camp furniture, with the bushcraft chair being the most popular project after shelters and campfire tripods.
Enthusiasm for crafting outdoor furniture isn’t limited to the U. In the UK, the Bushcraft Show reported that 80% of attendees tried their hand at making some kind of seating during their time at the event. What’s more, over 70% of respondents said that building a chair or bench greatly improved their camping comfort and overall experience.
These numbers reinforce what many of us have experienced firsthand: there’s something uniquely satisfying about sitting on a chair you built yourself, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild. Not only does it meet a practical need, but it also connects you to the timeless tradition of self-reliant living.
In the next part of our guide, we’ll uncover some fun facts about bushcraft that might surprise you, highlight the influence of expert bushcrafters like Ray Mears, and tackle the most common questions folks have about building natural furniture in the wild. Stay with us—your bushcraft
journey is just getting started.
Part 3:
Fun Facts Section: 10 Facts About Bushcraft
- Bushcraft is Ancient: Humans have been practicing bushcraft skills for thousands of years – it’s how our ancestors survived.
- The term ‘Bushcraft’ was first used in the Southern Hemisphere: It was originally used to describe skills needed to survive in the bush, like hunting and trapping.
- Bushcraft is Worldwide: Bushcraft skills vary from region to region, influenced by the local environment – from the arctic to the tropics, each area has its unique ways.
- Bushcraft is Not Just About Survival: It’s about thriving in the wilderness, forming a connection with nature, and understanding the ecosystem.
- Bushcraft Skills are Diverse: They include making tools, hunting, foraging, shelter building, navigation, firecraft, knot tying, water sourcing, and much more.
- Bushcraft Utilizes Minimal Tools: Often, only a knife, cordage, and perhaps a container for water are needed.
- Bushcraft Furniture is Sustainable: Bushcraft chairs and benches are biodegradable, making them a sustainable alternative to plastic or metal furniture.
- Bushcraft Celebrates Resourcefulness: The ethos of bushcraft encourages resourcefulness and respect for nature, leaving as little impact as possible.
- Bushcraft Skills are Often Passed Down: In many cultures, bushcraft skills are cherished and passed down from generation to generation.
- Bushcraft Can Be a Career: There are professional bushcraft instructors and guides, and some people even partake in bushcraft competitions.
Author Spotlight: Ray Mears
Ray Mears is a world-renowned British bushcrafter, author, and TV presenter. His shows like “World of Survival,” “Northern Wilderness,” and “Wild Britain” have inspired countless people to explore bushcraft. Apart from teaching survival skills, Mears emphasizes the importance of respecting nature and understanding the ecosystem. His books like “Bushcraft: An Inspirational Guide to Surviving the Wilderness” and “Out on the Land: Bushcraft Skills from the Northern Forest” are considered must-reads for anyone interested in bushcraft.
Staying true to the essence of bushcraft, Mears often talks about using minimal gear and taking advantage of the local resources. His teachings include the crafting of bushcraft furniture, including chairs and benches, just using local wood and cordage. Mears is known for his calm, patient teaching style and his ability to simplify complex techniques, making bushcraft accessible to all.
In the next, and final, part of our guide, we’ll tackle your most pressing questions about bushcraft and building natural furniture. From the best wood for your chair to tips on choosing the perfect campsite, we’ve got you covered. So stay tuned for our FAQ section.
Part 4:
FAQ Section: 10 Questions and Answers About Bushcraft and Natural Furniture Making
1. What type of wood should I use for my bushcraft chair or bench.
The type of wood you choose should be sturdy and not prone to breakage. Green wood is a good choice as it is flexible and less likely to snap under weight. Consider using hazel, ash, or willow.
2. How durable is a bushcraft chair or bench.
The durability of a bushcraft chair or bench depends on the materials used and how well it is constructed. If properly built and maintained, it can last for several camping trips.
3. Is bushcraft environmentally friendly.
Yes, bushcraft is environmentally friendly. It encourages the use of natural, biodegradable materials and promotes sustainability and respect for nature.
4. How long does it take to make a bushcraft chair or bench.
The time it takes to make a bushcraft chair or bench can vary depending on your skills and the materials used, but it generally takes a few hours.
5. Can you recommend any resources for learning more about bushcraft.
Ray Mears’ books and TV shows are excellent resources for learning more about bushcraft.
Websites like Bushcraft UK and Primitive Technology also offer a wealth of information.
6. What other items can I make using bushcraft skills.
Apart from chairs and benches, you can make a variety of items such as shelters, cooking utensils, tools, and traps using bushcraft skills.
7. Can I practice bushcraft in any outdoor environment.
While you can practice many bushcraft skills in different outdoor environments, it’s important to know the specific resources available in your area. Different environments offer different materials for crafting and survival.
8. Is bushcraft safe.
Yes, bushcraft is safe as long as you stick to safety guidelines, respect nature, and use tools properly. It’s recommended to learn and practice bushcraft skills under the guidance of an experienced instructor.
9. Can I use bushcraft skills for survival.
Absolutely, bushcraft skills are essential for survival in the wilderness. They allow you to make shelter, find food, purify water, and navigate.
10. Is bushcraft a good hobby for kids.
Bushcraft is an excellent hobby for kids. It teaches them about nature, survival skills, and respect for the environment. However, supervision is required, especially when using tools.
As we wrap up this guide to making a bushcraft chair or bench, we turn to a relevant verse from the New King James Version (NKJV) Bible, Proverbs 12:27: “The lazy man does not roast what he took in hunting, But diligence is man’s precious possession. ” This verse speaks to the essence of bushcraft – diligence, resourcefulness, and appreciating the fruit of one’s labor.
In conclusion, bushcraft is not just about survival. It’s about forming a deeper connection with nature, appreciating the resources it provides, and using our creativity and skills to craft what we need. Building a bushcraft chair or bench is a rewarding experience that encapsulates all these values.
Whether you’re a seasoned bushcrafter or a beginner, we hope this guide has been helpful and has inspired you to try making your own natural furniture. Check out Ray Mears’ teachings for more insights into the world of bushcraft and embrace the journey of learning, creating, and connecting with nature.