Spend a creative day in the Dorset countryside weaving your own sitting or moon-gazing willow hare with local willow artist, Jo Sadler. Held in Symondsbury Estate’s atmospheric 14th-century Tithe Barn, this one-day workshop introduces the essential techniques of willow weaving in a beautiful setting. At the end of the day, you’ll take home a handcrafted willow hare, approximately 2ft tall - a characterful addition to your home or garden
Using sustainably sourced Somerset willow, Jo will guide you through building the structure and weaving the form, showing you how to shape, secure and bring character to your hare. Her supportive teaching style makes the workshop suitable for beginners and those with some experience.
The day includes a delicious two-course lunch at Symondsbury Kitchen, made with produce from the estate’s kitchen garden and trusted local suppliers.
Taking place in March, a season long associated with hares, this workshop offers a calm, creative way to reconnect with traditional craft and the natural world. All tools and materials are provided, so you can focus fully on the making process. Just wear old and comfortable clothing as this course is very hands-on.
Date: Wednesday 18th March
Time: 9.30am - 5pm
Location: Tithe Barn, Symondsbury Estate, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 6HG
Please Note: This workshop is physically demanding and requires a good degree of manual dexterity. This course is not suitable for under 16's. Maximum 12 people per course.
Willow Bark can cause serious allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to aspirin. Willow bark can also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, beta-blockers and acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Event Details
Date: Wednesday 18th March
Time: 9.30am - 5pm
Location: Tithe Barn, Symondsbury Estate, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 6HG
Please Note: This course is not suitable for under 16's. Maximum 12 people per course.
Program For The Day
9.30am – Arrival with coffee, tea and homemade cake
9.45am – Course starts
1.00pm – Two-Course lunch
2.00pm – Resume for the afternoon
4.30pm - 5.00pm – Course finishes
About Jo Sadler
Combining her passion for plants and wildlife with her craftsmanship, Jo Sadler is a talented willow artist who is renowned for creating life-sized animal sculptures from natural forms. Starting her journey with willow as a gardener, Jo now teaches her craft across the South-West.
"I’ve known Symondsbury Estate for years. I used to visit with my godparents when I was a child, and it’s wonderful to see it develop over time. It’s such an inviting place that makes me feel calm and relaxed. And, there’s free parking and a lovely café! So, it feels like the perfect place to do my willow workshops as you’re in nature and it’s a stress-free environment. We do the workshops in Symondsbury’s historic Tithe Barn which couldn’t be a more perfect venue – it’s such an inspiring place to spend time. I can’t wait to get started!" Jo Sadler.
Terms & Conditions
Please note tickets for all events and workshops are non-refundable and non-transferable. Maximum 12 people per course.
