Crafty Sunday - Willow Weaving

One of a number of craft activities, taking place today. All workshops aimed at beginners, try something different and take home your creation…

Join Burbage Festival regular Chaz from Wayside Willow  Let's hear from him:

"I am Chaz Friend, one time teacher for 25 years, now full time willow artist and willow craft tutor since 2014. I live in rural Warwickshire with my family and pets.

"I use cultivated willow to create items out of willow and basketry forms. I build steel armatures to make sculptures with a woven willow skin. I work in schools ( and other groups such as scouts and guides, gardening groups and WI as well as businesses) across the Midlands and beyond, teaching ancient craft skills and making sculptural pieces. I run Local adult courses in Nuneaton ( and take these on the road further afield as requested), where I also sell willow products that I have made.

"I love nature and being out beneath the trees and willow craft is a connection point with creation as I step into the rhythm of her seasons. I have a base at Saints ( cafe, Learning and Enterprise Zone), Newdegate Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire.

For 2026, we will be making these beautiful spirally weaved containers. They make perfect fat ball holders for our garden friends; many of whom will still be feeding and caring for fledgling chicks in May. Alternatively, with a little scaling down will make perfect kitchen holders for some of the lighter kitchen ingredients such as garlic, onions or small oranges. Especially helpful for ingredients that benefit from some ventilation around them. 

This course is suitable for beginners, though the fine weaving between small spaces would cause discomfort to anyone who suffers from joint issues such as arthritis.  

Some of the key learning in this course includes, the paired weave, binding and track borders.

Ticket £35  

Maximum 12 people

One session from 1pm

This event is suitable for adults and accompanied children aged 16-18

As always, refreshments, including home made cake, will be on offer.