Lincolnshire Willow

Working with willow is a practical and pleasurable introduction to sustainability, conservation, arts, crafts and heritage.

Alison Walling

Just me and my shed and my acre of willow.

As a great admirer of willow in all its many varieties and forms, I am keen to see species once cultivated widely in Lincolnshire growing again, whether coppiced as a resource, for amenity, for wildlife or for one of the many other good reasons to grow willow.

My background is teaching arts and other skills to people of differing ages and abilities, and I can offer workshops to suit most groups’ needs. I work regularly with communities and organisations and their gardens.

Training in basketry has led me to use these techniques to create small and large scale pieces, from woodpeckers to sculptural shelters which I create to commission.

LEARNING

Courses

I teach regularly throughout the county, leading workshops in a wide range of willow work including basic basketmaking and sculpture.

Most workshops run for a full day and unless stated otherwise are suitable for beginners. All tools and materials are supplied.

Group bookings are available, I can travel to you or book a suitable venue. Please email me for prices.

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The Willow Holt

at Bridge Farm

Being able to grow and harvest my own willow is an integral part of my work and allows me the privilege of learning from its every stage of growth and development.

The holt was planted in January 2012 on land registered with the Soil Association and is managed to organic standards. The planting was inspired by local historian Rodney Cousins, author of “A Basketful”. The book documents the history and tradition of willow work in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. I started to grow willow varieties linked to the county historically and now have over 40. My favourites include ‘Lincolnshire Dutch’ and Salix forbyana. Many of these small, fine basketry varieties can be grown in gardens and deserve more interest and recognition

gardens

Living Willow

After many years of experience working with living willow I have seen structures created and grow older, gaining intimate knowledge of their growth habits and response to damage, pruning and disease. I continue to experiment with different varieties to suit particular needs and environments and enjoy creating new structures as well as managing older willow gardens. I have designed and helped to build community, sensory and wildlife spaces.

I create Living Willow Gardens to commission using willow grown at the farm. Installation includes a biodegradable mulch matting and a bark topping. Willow varieties are carefully selected to meet the site and maintenance requirements.