If you have a passion for your garden and/or growing your own vegetables, you might like to learn how to make a traditional Willow Garden Obelisk. The Willow Garden Obelisk is a new workshop to be offered here at the Rural Skills Centre. A garden obelisk provides support for plants, flowers and vegetables, alike. They create beautiful focal points and provide height in the garden; most importantly, their sturdiness gives support to delicate climbers like sweet peas or kidney beans. You will be using willow that has been grown and harvested here on our farm. Whether you choose a traditional or spiral weave, you will be taking home a garden feature that will be the envy of your friends and family. Better still, bring friends and family for a morning/afternoon of fun. With her passion for sharing this heritage craft, Gill Jones will guide you through the process of making your own obelisk. This workshop will also make a wonderful gift experience if you are looking to buy a present for someone special.

During this workshop, you will:

• Discuss the function of the tools and equipment used for basketmaking;
• Use willow work tools correctly and safely;
• Discuss the way in which willow is prepared correctly for garden structures/basketmaking;
• Handle willow safely;
• Use simple, stake and strand weaving techniques  to create a willow garden obelisk; and
• Discuss the care of your garden obelisk so that it provides several years of use.

At the end of this workshop, you will take home the willow garden obelisk you have made.

The Rural Skills Centre will provide:

• All materials and equipment to make your willow garden obelisk;
• Tea/Coffee and lots of cake;
• Parking; and
• Accessible facilities.

This ‘Willow Garden Obelisk’ workshop is suitable for anyone with an interest in making their own plant supports. It is particularly suitable for beginners.

This workshop is taught by Gill from Rural Skills Centre