Description
Over two days, you will build a small foraging basket or tray (also known as a whisket), starting from fresh green hazel rods. On Day 1, you will learn how to select and harvest the rods from young coppiced hazel stands, being mindful of the natural regeneration of the tree, so it can continue to be used for generations to come. You will then prepare the rods into thin weavers and sturdy ribs, using just a small carving knife and some elbow grease. You will learn to identify the different layers of the hazel rod and how they behave, so that every part can be used in the final basket. One small basket can require over 100 metres of weavers which, along with he ribs and handle, can all be harvested from a single hazel rod if you’re careful enough! On Day 2 you will build the basket, first learning how to bind the ribs to the rim, then begin weaving the body of the basket, adding further ribs as you go. Finally you will attach the handle and make any finishing touches. With proper care, your hazel basket will last for many years as a beautiful and practical item! Please bear in mind that the preparation of materials for hazel weaving can be quite physically demanding, particularly on the back and knees, but don’t let this dissuade you! Ready-made materials will be available for you to use for the less-intensive weaving.
What's included in the price?
- Materials and tools will be provided. - Hot drinks available all day. - Lunch break around 1pm - please bring a packed lunch!
Duration
2 days
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
Steeky Meadow is a place for nature, crafts, and wellness. It is a managed woodland offering a location for learning about and experiencing nature, learning traditional craft skills, and gaining the benefits of being outdoors. Steeky Meadow CIC is a registered Community Interest Company that engages with local community support groups and individuals. We aim to work towards nature regeneration; promoting low-impact activities, encouraging traditional bush-craft and land management skills, and giving back more to the land than we take from it.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Teenagers
- Suitable for beginners
- Intermediate level
- Parking provided
FAQs
While there is a workshop shelter on-site, all our sessions take place outdoors, so please dress appropriately for the weather! Sturdy footwear is recommended, especially when it has been raining, since it can be wet and slippery underfoot. It's also a good idea to wear clothing that you don't mind getting a bit dirty, as that's a common hazard of outdoor crafts!
All the tools and materials you require will be provided. However, if you do have your own hand tools, you are welcome to bring them.
Hand tools are sharp and therefore can be inherently dangerous, however the best way to avoid injury is the careful and safe use of proper techniques.
Steeky Meadow is located in Milton Combe, near Yelverton, Devon. Just a 5 minute drive through the lanes from the A386 Plymouth to Tavistock road. Please do not try to follow your satnav to the site as it will very likely lead you wrong!
Parking is kindly provided by the The Who'd Have Thought It Inn, Milton Combe. Parking is behind the pub, and then it's a pleasant 5 minute stroll through the village, up the lane and into the woods at Steeky Meadow.
We offer a full refund if you need to cancel up to 4 weeks before the scheduled date, so please try to contact us as soon as possible.
In rare situations, we may need to cancel due to staff availability, adverse weather or attendance numbers. In these cases, we will try tocontact you at least 4 weeks before the scheduled date to refund or rearrange your booking.
Venue
