Willow Bird Weaving Workshop – Celebrate the RSPB National Garden Birdwatch
Description
This January, join us for a hands-on willow weaving workshop inspired by the RSPB National Garden Birdwatch! Taking place over the weekend. Craft your own larger-than-life small willow birds, with examples including blackbirds, woodpeckers, and ravens — or choose your favourite garden bird. Perfect for beginners and nature lovers, this workshop offers a fun, creative, and mindful way to celebrate winter wildlife. Learn traditional willow weaving techniques while connecting with the birds from your garden or local area, and take home a unique handmade willow bird to display or gift.
What's included in the price?
All tools and materials are included, along with refreshments and cakes. Please also bring an apron or wear clothing that you like working in, you are welcome to bring your own secateurs and gloves if you want to. Please note that working with willow can be tiring on the hands and will be difficult for you to do if you have conditions such as arthritis, carpal tunnel, etc.
Duration
6 hours
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
Hello, I am a willow sculptor / artist based near Southampton in Hampshire. You will often find me outside under my shelter making sculptures or outside creating work from materials that I have found. I teach in a variety of venues in and around Hampshire, as well as exhibiting my work at various art shows. I create work to commission as well as providing bespoke workshops for private and public events and projects.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Intermediate level
- Public transport
- Parking provided
- Suitable for beginners
FAQs
It is often best to start with an activity that offers a variety of small items or a larger shape that is relatively straightforward, such as a bird workshop.
You are welcome to join us for a more detailed workshop, but please be aware that you may not make such a detailed version as someone who has more experience.
If you are someone who prefers working on small precise works, I suggest starting with the workshops where we create several smaller items, e.g Xmas crafts, garden items, small birdhouses, baskets, etc. For those of you who like to experiment and see what happens, you might prefer something more sculptural. To be fair, there is no one way and you never know until you try. It will be fun which ever you decide to do.
Weaving with willow can be difficult for anyone who has problems with grip/fine motor skills/small movements, as we will be using threading and pulling movements.
It is better to make a smaller animal, or freestanding bird, if you have low energy levels. If you want to make a larger item, such as an animal with 4 legs, we will be standing quite a bit for the first hour or two, then if you prefer, you can move to sitting.
If you are not sure please feel free to contact me and we can chat through the options that might work for you before you book a place
