Willow weaving is a timeless and rewarding craft that combines creativity with hands-on skill. Join this friendly and relaxed short workshop to explore the art of working with natural materials under the guidance of expert tutor, Louise Brown. In this session, you will create a beautiful decorative willow swift (a stylised bird in flight) perfect for indoor or outdoor display.
Your tutor will introduce you to willow as a versatile weaving material, including how to select suitable rods based on flexibility, length and thickness. You will learn how to prepare and handle willow safely using appropriate tools, before being guided step-by-step through the process of shaping and weaving your own decorative swift.
Techniques will include forming a simple frame, weaving to create structure and detail, and refining the distinctive shape of the bird, including wings and tail.
By the end of the workshop, you will have crafted your own decorative willow swift to take home!
None - this course is suitable for beginners. A moderate level of manual strength and dexterity is helpful when working with willow, but the project has been designed to be accessible and achievable for those new to the craft.
During the workshop, students may use specialist basketry tools, some of which are sharp or pointed, so a sensible and safety-conscious approach is important at all times.
All willow and materials required for the workshop are included in the course fee. The tutor will provide all necessary specialist tools for use during the session.
Please wear practical clothing and bring a work apron, as damp willow can sometimes be messy.
After this workshop, you may wish to explore further willow weaving projects, such as other decorative forms, sculptural pieces, or traditional basketry techniques.