Introduction to Traditional Straw Plaiting
About this workshop
Join Elizabeth Woodroofe, a member of the Guild of Straw Craftsmen and learn the art of straw plaiting. Straw plaiting is a traditional craft that has been practised in many parts of the world for centuries. It is officially on the Heritage Craft Association’s red list of endangered crafts.
In this full-day workshop, you will learn the history of traditional straw plaiting, how to prepare wheat for plaiting and how to plait and construct a variety of corn dollies.
Corn dollies are symbolic objects, originally made from the last sheaf of grain to be harvested since it was believed that the spirit of a good harvest retreated there. This spirit was then woven into a corn dolly and kept safe until the following year or could be burnt, planted or given to the best cow to eat. In this way, good harvests were secured.
At the end of your workshop, you will take your corn dollies home with you.
Essential information
Required skill level
No previous experience required
What do I need to bring?
Snacks, lunch, water bottle, notepad and pen.
Clothing guidelines
Comfortable to allow free movement of hands and arms. Closed toed shoes are required.
Maximum class size
Maximum 10 participants
What is Included
Includes all raw materials (wheat, ribbon, thread, seed heads) and tuition
You will learn
You will learn the history and cultural significance of traditional straw work, how to prepare the wheat for plaiting and how to plait and construct a variety of traditional corn dollies.
Morning tea/lunch info
Morning tea included
