Willow Weaving: Garden Obelisk & Bird Feeder
Description
Create beautiful and practical additions to your garden in this relaxed, hands-on willow weaving workshop with willow artist Chaz Friend. Designed for complete beginners as well as returning makers, this session focuses on two classic outdoor projects: a woven obelisk and a spiral bird feeder. In the morning, you’ll craft a sculptural obelisk — perfect for sweet peas, beans, or simply as a decorative feature. You’ll learn how to build a strong, tapered framework and weave rhythm and pattern into the structure. In the afternoon, you’ll use a jig to make a charming spiral bird feeder, ideal for fat balls or nesting materials (yes — even excess dog hair!). These feeders also double as rustic kitchen containers for garlic, lemons, or small oranges, offering stylish storage with natural character. Whether you’re new to willow or refreshing your skills, this day offers a welcoming introduction to shaping, tension, and traditional weaving techniques. Chaz Friend is the willow artist behind Wayside Willow, sharing the craft of willow weaving with schools, community groups and adults across the Midlands and beyond. After 24 years as a primary teacher, Chaz followed his passion for heritage crafts and has been teaching willow weaving since 2014. Friendly, patient and endlessly enthusiastic about the possibilities of willow, Chaz brings warmth, humour and deep knowledge to every workshop. The course will take place in our Heritage Craft Barn at Stanwick Lakes, a beautiful 750-acre nature reserve and visitor attraction in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley.
What's included in the price?
Tools, materials and safety equipment are provided. Basic tea /coffee and biscuits are provided free of charge during the course. Food and drinks can be purchased in the café in the visitor centre or bring your own packed lunch. Car parking is also free of charge on the day of your course.
Duration
6 hours
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
At Stanwick Lakes, we offer a range of Arts & Crafts and Heritage Courses, from watercolour painting classes to blacksmithing and wood-carving workshops. Alongside offering craft courses, Stanwick Lakes is a unique 750 acre nature reserve and countryside attraction located in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Teenagers
- Wheelchair users
- Hearing impaired
- Limited mobility
- Learning difficulties (SEN)
- Christmas
- Suitable for beginners
- Easter
- Father's Day
- Mother's Day
- Romantic
- Parking provided
FAQs
Stanwick Lakes is a unique 750 acre nature reserve and countryside attraction located in the heart of Northamptonshire’s Nene Valley.
We have extensive play areas, open spaces and paths that families, walkers, cyclists and nature lovers can explore at leisure. We also have specially considered areas dedicated to nature and its wildlife, as well as the history of the site.
Parking is free for workshop attendees - please give your registration plate details to our reception staff in the Visitor Centre on the day.
Alternatively, you can become a member for just £42.00 per year, giving you free access to all our facilities for a whole year, while supporting Rockingham Forest Trust.
