learn-to-make-a-willow-birdfeeder
Click on the link above to download details of this willow birdtables workshop that will be taking place in Robertsbridge, East Sussex, next March. Contact me to book your place!
Weekend Workshop March 2017
sussex
Recent work and upcoming markets
Bread/fruit baskets
Back-basket (straps to be added)
I’ve been enjoying a few unusual commissions this summer, which has been fun and challenging. Now starting to make stock for the upcoming local winter fairs and events, namely:
- Tunbridge Wells Farmers Markets: 12th November; 10th and 22nd December (9am-2pm, outside Town Hall)
- Great Dixter Winter Fair: 26th & 27th November (details to follow)
- Wilderness Wood Winter Fair: 3rd and 4th December (10am-4pm), Hadlow Down, East Sussex.
Looking forward to meeting old and new customers!
Work installed
Delivered bespoke umbrella stand last week and happy that it fits and looks at home already and being fully functional! A lovely commission to have worked on.
Pod and Cocoon
Olives and Ochres
Rope Coil Asymmetric Log basket
Rope Coil Asymmetric Log
Pod and Cocoon
This week I’ve really enjoyed working on some commissions and getting into the flow with the ‘rope coil’ technique, playing with asymmetry and more sculptural forms. I love the juxtaposition of the smooth reddish brown of the buff willow against the variation in texture and colour that the bark of the ‘brown’ willow (which is often shades of olive green to deep purples) gives.
Cuckoo Fair Stall
Lots of positive response… just not much footfall!
Clucking around
Checking out the handiwork… less than impressed
Chocolatey willow
mmm… tasty !
One more basket to make before they’re all off to market on Sunday.
a right pair
Learning basketry is not always an upwards trajectory, or a smooth and predictable continuum, but rather a zig zagging, to-ing and fro-ing, an endless set of puzzles. Hence these two rather wonky things. Hopefully not utterly lacking in charm, but rather far from symmetrical perfection.
A Month of Making begins
Day One of Weaving new stock for the Cuckoo Fair, to be held at the Bell in Ticehurst on Sunday 15th May. Thought I’d start small with these two bread/fruit baskets to get my eye in again… having fun combining different willows (the red/black/yellow tones I’ve grown myself), and a plaited border for a change, in white willow.
Latest Work
Still working on the perfect design for the strap bag…
Having to work with buff today as this cold weather means my brown willow isn’t ready yet… frustrating initially but pleased with the results.
Emma Purcell 