FREE - Weave the Past: Corn Dolly Making

Name: FREE - Weave the Past: Corn Dolly Making
Start: 2025-10-29T10:00:00+00:00
End: 2025-10-29T15:30:00+00:00
Location: Brewery Court, GL7 1JH Cirencester, United Kingdom

Schedule

Wed Oct 29 2025 at 10:00 am to 03:30 pm

UTC+00:00

Location

Brewery Court, GL7 1JH Cirencester, United Kingdom | Cirencester, EN

Join maker and heritage craft expert Penny Maltby for a hands-on workshop celebrating one of our oldest rural traditions – corn dolly making!
Don’t be fooled by the name – these beautiful woven creations aren’t dolls, but Harvest Trophies, once made from the last sheaf of grain to honour the spirit of the crops. Using techniques like plaiting and tying, families would shape tokens to bring good luck and ensure a fruitful harvest the following year. Penny, who specialises in endangered straw crafts, will guide you through the process, sharing how this humble material – straw – has shaped our communities, landscapes, and customs for centuries. You’ll get to make your own corn dolly (a love knot or a harvest knot) using traditional methods and heritage wheat grown especially for straw working. This drop in event is a great way to have a go at a traditional craft.
No booking necessary and all materials are provided. All ages and abilities welcome. A perfect mix of craft, culture and countryside magic – for all ages and skill levels! Children under 8 may need some parental guidance (children accompanied by an adult please)
https://www.newbreweryarts.org.uk/corn-dolly-making