Straw work and Corn Dolly making are both Red Listed Endangered Crafts after falling out of mainstream practice due to the mechanisation of crop harvesting.

Today, there has been a resurgence in interest as people appreciate the pleasure of working with a natural and sustainable material and the mindful aspect of working with straw.

Working with heritage wheat, you will learn how to make a traditional spiral plait, how to increase, decrease and join in new straws. Some manual dexterity is need for this course and it is suitable for those with some previous experience who would like to revisit or improve their skill set.

This day would make a perfect add on to the one-day introductory course on offer the day before. The aim is to go home with 2 or 3 finished pieces to hang in your home or for gifts.

Equipment & Materials Requirements

• Apron (straw can be dusty)
• An old tea towel or small towel to keep straw damp whilst working
• A water spray bottle
• Scissors for cutting straw and thread (but not your best embroidery ones)
• Strong thread in a natural colour
• A cork mat (such as placemat) or flat piece polystyrene packaging/thick cardboard for pinning and setting your pieces (some available to borrow)
• Large headed pins for pinning the straw to the mat
• Any special ribbons, natural fibres, plant materials or other embellishments you wish to use

Additional Materials charge - £20 Per Person