BUSHCRAFT Camp Chair – FREE PATTERN

I am always trying to come up with solutions to common frustrations within the Bushcraft and Camping arena.  One of the most common frustrations is having a comfortable seat once you’ve settled in for the night while camping in the back country.  I’ve tried packing a small collapsible camp chair but the ones I’ve found have been too bulky and haven’t really fit into my minimalist mentality.  And, none of them seem to be multi-functional…which is a requirement of almost everything I pack.

So…I’ve been experimenting with camp chair solutions over the years and I’ve finally found one that I am happy with.  I call it the WillowHaven Stöl.  Stöl is swedish for Stool.  If you’ve been looking for a great BushCraft project – this might be the one for you.  Below are step-by-step instructions for how to make your own.  A FREE PATTERN pdf download is at the end.  It’s bigger than a normal 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper but you might be able to print multiple sheets and tape them together.  If projects aren’t your thing but you really love the chair concept, I offer them for sale in the WHO store.  You can buy the pattern, the cut leather to sew yourself or the completed chair with or without the WillowHavenOutdoor Logo.  Below are step-by-step photos with some commentary:

Step 1: Trace your pattern on 1/8″ thick Saddle Grade Leather

Step 2: Here is the Traced Chair pattern on Leather

Step 3: Cut it out using any Utility Knife

Step 4: I pre-punched the holes for sewing using a Thonging Leather Chisel

Step 5 (OPTIONAL): I applied a Vinyl Decal to prevent the dye from staining the leather where my logo is.

Step 6: I applied a walnut leather stain because I liked the color. Notice the Vinyl Decal is still there – which blocks the dye.

Step 7: I removed the Vinyl Decal to reveal the unstained logo.

Step 8: Dried & Ready to begin sewing.

Step 9: Sewing through the punched holes using a thick wax leather working thread and a Speedy Stitcher Sewing Tool

Step 10: Sewing complete – trim all loose thread.

Step 11: Under side view

Step 12: Showing the under side pockets created by Sewing

Step 13: Set Up and Ready to Enjoy!

I love this chair design for several reasons.  First, all you have to carry with you into the bush is the leather chair top and some paracord.  The chair top weighs virtually nothing.  Once in the bush just collect three sturdy sticks about the length of your arm and use a sheer lashing to lash them together.  That’s all there is to it.  I’ve used the chair as a plate before and when I go camping with friends I’ve used it as a Camp Frisbee as well – it actually works pretty well.

Below is a video of me setting up the chair and showing how I make the tripod base.  Here is the link to download the FREE PDF PATTERN for the chair top.  You can right click and SAVE AS if you wish.  If you have any trouble downloading it just email me at creek@willowhavenoutdoor.com and I will send you one. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this design. Let me know if you have any questions about making your own!

Remember, it’s not IF but WHEN,

Creek

Creek Stewart is the Owner & Lead Instructor at Willow Haven Outdoor Survival School located in Central Indiana & online at https://willowhavenoutdoor.com.