About Alice
Alice graduated from Radford University in the early 1980's to become a teacher. But it wasn't to be. Unable to find a job in her field, Alice's work journey eventually led her to the field of furniture restoration and chair caning.
Eventually, she worked part-time for a furniture refinisher. It was there she developed a keen interest in learning the different weaves to restore chair seats.
It took a lot of trial and error but she learned her craft well! When the furniture repair shop owner retired, Alice kept the chair caning part of the business going.
It was then she established Higgins Chair Caning. That was in 2005. In 2006, she moved to the Factory Antique Mall in Verona.
Now, after 20 years at that location, Alice has moved to 708 D Street in Staunton's West End and has opened her own storefront.
About Sheila
Sheila took a handwoven lesson with me a few years ago and proved to share the same values and work ethics that I demand of myself. I was impressed with her techniques and offered her an apprenticeship.
She has since become another weaver I can rely on for quality work and to share the load. Sheila also uses her talents in wicker repair and has been weaving professionally for about five years.
