| Date/Time | Location | Course facilitator |
| 20 Mar 2022 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM | Ticehurst | Richard Vidal |
In this workshop you will learn basic willow weaving skills. You will cut your own willow stems and make a willow peony frame and a platter or other smaller object.
New member, Richard Vidal, is going to be our tutor. He has recently retired from the civil service to spend more time with his passion for all things ‘willow’. He has grown his own willow for 18 years and produces beautiful sculptures, living willow structures, ornaments and baskets. This introductory workshop will cover the growing, harvesting, storage and dipping of dry willow into water to regain its innate flexibility.
Before his retirement Richard sold willow at Blackheath Farmers Market and started to teach willow weaving to community groups so understands the different levels of teaching required dependent on previous experience of working with cane, willow or other wood. 
Richard will start the day (indoors if weather inclement) with an introduction to the growing of willow and how to create colourful practical artistic objects. You will then harvest a mixture of red, yellow, green and maroon varieties of willow and create your own peony frame or similar structure. Some people may want to make garden structures outside whilst others may prefer being under cover or inside if cold. 
For this workshop please dress warmly: waterproof gloves and leggings are useful and walking boots or wellies essential. Please bring secateurs (though spares are available). Bring a packed lunch. Tea and coffee will be provided. Please leave your dog at home as it might slow you down in completing your creations, but if you have no dog sitter then you can bring your pet if it is well behaved and quiet.
Richard’s mobile is 07597 939668 and his email is richardhvidal@yahoo.co.uk. He is happy to discuss and explain what to expect at the workshop in more detail and to consider making adjustments for any disabilities or injuries. You can checkout Richard’s work on his Instagram account here – Ticehurst Willow
Can’t make this date? Event sold out? Please email our training organiser so that you will be on the list when we run the workshop again.