Our Programmes

Willow Platters

4th May 2025

Facilitator: Tess Wakeling

Woven platters and trays in two designs.

This courses give you the chance to explore willow platters, and is a great introduction to the Catalan and frame styles of basket making. Using Somerset and locally grown willow, you will have time to finish two designs over the course of the day and leave with the skills to make more. These trays are useful for placing hot pans on, for serving food or as decorative pieces hung on the wall.

Event time: 4th May 2025 9:30am - 4:00pm

Interested in spreading the cost of this course? Select Clearpay at checkout.

Not seeing Clearpay? Email info@hawkwoodcollege.co.uk for your payment options.

What Is Included

For the majority of our courses, both residential and non-residential rates are available. Residential options are fully inclusive with all meals provided. Non-residential options include suppers, lunches and all refreshments and exclude B&B. Some of our short day courses, events and talks do not include meals and refreshments. For more details about this course, please see the Practical Information section below.

Additional Activities

Mindful walking through our woodland trails
Meditate in our Woodland Sanctuary
Go on a hike and explore the Cotswolds AONB
Discover surrounding charming market towns

At a Glance

A relaxing day of weaving using locally grown willow
Make beautiful and useful platters for the table
Suitable for all ability levels
Enjoy a delicious freshly cooked 2-course lunch

What You Will Gain

Learn the basics of Catalan and Frame basketry
Build up a unique design of natural colours
Leave with the skills to make more

Booking Options

DayDay delegate rate

£115.00

Interested in spreading the cost of this course? Select Clearpay at checkout.

Not seeing Clearpay? Email info@hawkwoodcollege.co.uk for your payment options.

Willow Platters Tutors

Tess Wakeling

More about Willow Platters

You will start by learning about the different varieties of willow and the harvesting and soaking of this sustainable material. You will make a hoop from longer, thicker rods to build your platter onto, and then build up a strong surface with different colours, weaving over and under. You can choose whether to add handles to the piece, and using secateurs, finish by trimming the ends.

During the afternoon you may choose to repeat what you have learned during the morning and make a second platter, or to start a small frame basket tray. In a similar way you will start with a pre-dried frame, but using finer rods this time to weave back and forth.

This workshop is suitable for beginners or those with some experience who wish to learn some new skills. All materials and tools provided.

Practical Information

Wear practical clothing, nothing too white!

Suitable for all abilities.
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Not ready to book yet?
We understand that you might have a few questions before confirming your place. Whether you're wondering about the course content, schedule, requirements, or anything else, contact Cathy, our Bookings Manager, with your questions and she will be happy to help: info@hawkwoodcollege.co.uk

About Hawkwood

Hawkwood is a stunning Grade Il listed 19th Century country house, surrounded by 42 acres of sustainably managed woodland, farmland, and gardens. Set in the heart of the Cotswolds - an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - it is a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With a diverse selection of nearly 150 courses, there's plenty to choose from, including courses in transformative leadership, future thinking, inner life, music and the arts.

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