Workshops

Wool — Willow — Rush

Below are examples of workshops I have run in the past. I occasionally run workshops from my studio in Mid Wales — if you contact me I can add you to the list. These are usually basket making, garden structures, living willow, willow sculpture, or rush hat making; please state which workshop(s) you would be interested in. I can also tailor fun willow workshops for occasions like birthdays, making flowers and simple sculptures. Workshops are always limited to a maximum of 6–8 people depending on the size of the venue (a biggish space is needed for willow workshops).

Basket Making

Basket workshops are usually delivered over two days as there is so much to achieve and learn, however a one-day workshop for a simple shallow fruit, veg or bread basket can be achieved in one day. Workshop attendance numbers are limited as a lot of space is needed to deliver these, usually no more than 6 people. These can be run as private sessions for individuals or small groups and can be catered for in my workshop or a venue of your choice — offered as a gift, or run as a celebration for a birthday party. Please enquire as to which type of workshop you would like.

Basket making workshop Basket making workshop Group of finished baskets

Weaving

Weaving workshops tailored to your needs — this is weaving cushion pads with a simple technique using sticks and warp threads, using sheep fleece as the weft. Other techniques are available. Commissions are undertaken, please enquire.

Sheep fleece cushion weaving Sheep fleece cushion weaving Weaving wheel workshop group

Sculpture

Willow sculpture is always a popular workshop. No skills are needed — it's a simple process of building the structure of the thing you're trying to replicate, or you can go abstract, using soaked and mellow brown willow to create striking pieces. Ideal for parties or celebrations. Please enquire if you would like a workshop on this.

Willow sculpture workshop Willow sculpture workshop Willow sculpture workshop

Living Willow

Living Willow Community builds around the UK. All projects are different and can be tailored to your needs — I am happy to advise, design and do costings for your project, including arches, fedges, tunnels, amphitheatres, domes and arbours. Commissions undertaken, please enquire.

Living willow structure Living willow structure Living willow structure

Rush Hats

I run rush hat workshops occasionally. This uses common rush (not bullrush), which grows in flowing water and is harvested and dried for use later. When needed it is wetted and ready for use within a couple of hours — a lovely silky soft material when wetted. Please enquire for this workshop.

Rush hat workshop Rush hat workshop Rush hat workshop

Garden Structures

Garden structure workshops are tailored to your needs — you can create panels, plant supports, climbing frames and more, using soaked brown willow to create these lovely things. Commissions are undertaken, please enquire if you are interested.

Garden structure made from willow Garden structure made from willow

Lanterns

Lantern workshops are fun — you make more or less any 3D shape from willow, cover it in tissue paper and then put LED lights inside to light up your beautiful creation. Ideal for celebrations, community processions, or as a gift. Commissions are undertaken, please enquire.

Willow lantern, lit Willow lantern Willow lantern workshop

Hurdle Making

In the willow hurdle making workshop, participants make hurdles on a former that holds the uprights in place, with brown, green and coloured willows woven in to create lovely, interesting designs — completed in one day. Commissions and workshops undertaken.

Finished willow hurdles Hurdle making workshop Hurdle making workshop