Two intricately crafted deer sculptures made from willow.
Artisanal Skills, Christmas

Willow Deer Workshop

10:00 - 17:00
|
from £156.00

Overview

Renowned for her life-sized animal sculptures, willow artist and tutor Jo merges her passion for craftsmanship with a love for sculpting natural forms using locally sourced Somerset willow. In this exciting and fun workshop, Jo will guide you through the process of creating your own sculpture, weaving alongside you every step of the way.

This workshop is suitable for beginners, so no prior weaving experience is necessary. All materials, including locally sourced willow, will be provided. However, feel free to bring your favourite secateurs and remember to wear old, comfortable clothing.

“If you are looking for a total relax in beautiful English countryside this is the place for you. The willow deer making course was creative, fun and you have a lovely deer to take home. The food for lunch was exceptional full of flavour and so tasty. I would highly recommend…”

Lesley

Highlights

  • Enjoy a welcome drink and snack upon arrival.
  • Receive expert tuition from Jo Sadler.
  • Savor a two-course lunch featuring the finest seasonal ingredients.
  • Leave with your own handmade willow deer to adorn your home or garden.
Book this course
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Your day

10:00 - 17:00

Make yourself at home

You will meet your host and start the day with tea, coffee and a treat fresh from the kitchen.

Morning Session

To get the day underway, Jo will cover the basics of willow weaving and then guide you through the process, weaving along with you through the morning.

Lunch

Food is always the focus at River Cottage, and a two-course lunch of local, seasonal fare will be one of the highlights of your day.

Afternoon Session

You'll return to your weaving after lunch, finishing off your deer sculpture. Once you've finished you can stand back and survey the beauty of your work!

Departure

At the end of the day you’ll head back up the hill for 5:30pm, along with your beautiful willow structure ready to adorn your home or garden.

Please Note

Whilst we aim to make all our courses as accessible as possible, please note that willow weaving is a physical activity. It is your responsibility to assess your own physical health & suitability for a willow weaving course at the time of booking & on the date of your course. If you have any mobility, accessibility or physical health issues do please contact us prior to booking your place.

Further Information

Directions

This course is run from River Cottage HQ on the Dorset/Devon borders. Full address details of HQ will be provided once you have booked.

Licensed Venue

We are a licensed venue. We have a wide selection of the finest organic wines available to purchase.

Accommodation

If you would like to stay at the heart of River Cottage, we offer overnight accommodation at River Cottage HQ in our beautiful 17th century farmhouse. We have three stylishly refurbished bedrooms for B&B plus the 2-bedroom Gardener’s Cottage. These get booked quickly so for more information go to rivercottage.net/stay to book. Alternatively, we have put together a list of our local accommodation which includes B&Bs, self-catering, hotels and camping.

Suitability

We would advise that this course is only really suitable for 16 years of age and upwards. Whilst we aim to make all our courses as accessible as possible, please note that willow weaving is a physical activity. It is your responsibility to assess your own physical health & suitability for a willow weaving course at the time of booking & on the date of your course. If you have any mobility, accessibility or physical health issues do please contact us prior to booking your place.