Woodworking with Straw Marquetry Technique
Location:
The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth) - Riyadh
Workshop Duration:
10 days / 80 training hours
Date & Time:
23rd Aug to 3rd Sep (9am - 5pm)
Workshop Language:
English
Number of Seats:
12
Workshop Overview
A specialized workshop in Rye Straw Marquetry covering: straw preparation, sorting, and dyeing; the technique of splitting and flattening stems using an agate burnisher; and geometric compositions that leverage natural light reflection and three-dimensional optical depth, culminating in precise edge-to-edge assembly with zero gaps. Participants will learn how to apply this historic Spanish technique to build a sample library crafted to world-class artisan standards.
Workshop Pillars
1. Core Technical Pillars
- Advanced Straw Preparation & Material Science: Understanding the characteristics of rye straw compared to other grains, precise selective sorting, and manual dyeing processes using water-soluble aniline dyes.
- Physics of Preparation (Splitting, Flattening & Substrate Integration): Mastering the agate burnisher technique for splitting and flattening stems, preparing substrates, and executing high-precision dimensional adjustment.
- Geometry, Light Orientation & 3D Depth: Designing patterns that account for the optical grain of the straw, utilizing light reflection angles, and translating complex multidirectional visual effects.
- Complex Execution, Flush Assembly & Finishing: Executing simple and complex geometric compositions, as well as curved and figurative freeform designs; achieving seamless edge-to-edge assembly; and performing final surface cleaning and protective waxing.
2. Methodological & Theoretical Pillars
- Development: Blending authenticity and local practices with global techniques to elevate the craft and reach the pinnacle of technical mastery.
- Training of Trainers (ToT): Developing participants' competencies to enable them to teach the four techniques (both verbally and practically) to colleagues and future cohorts.
- Documentation & Sample Library Building: Creating physical samples and documenting procedural steps, materials used, and technical challenges encountered—establishing a sustainable educational reference for the Institute.
Instructors
-
Rubén Fabuel
Born in Madrid in 1982 into a fourth-generation family of wood artisans, Rubén Fabuel’s practice bridges the heritage of traditional craft with contemporary excellence in the technique of rye straw marquetry. Operating from his workshop in Casarrubios del Monte (Toledo, established in 2019), he crafts signature pieces and bespoke high-end projects defined by technical rigor, material luminosity, and innovative design.
His training includes specialized studies at the Atelier de Lison de Caunes (Paris) and the Homo Faber School of Crafts (León). He holds the official Master Craftsman License in Marquetry (2025) and is a member of the Legado Artesano de Castilla-La Mancha seal of craft excellence.
Over the years, his work has been recognized with honors such as the PRENAMO National Award for Business Excellence in Fine Arts (2026) and the 2nd Honorable Mention for Best Product Design at CasaDecor (2025). Additionally, he has undertaken notable institutional commissions—such as the pink straw marquetry jewelry box presented to H.M. Queen Letizia in 2026—and has permanent pieces exhibited at the Collegiate Church Museum of Torrijos.
Beyond the workbench, Rubén regularly collaborates with prominent interior architects and designers like Miguel Muñoz, Tomás Alía, and Guillermo Román (Candelas y Felipa), while sharing his vision through exhibitions and speaking engagements at major design fairs.