Willow Weaving with Chaz Friend
Schedule
Wed Jun 10 2026 at 10:00 am to 04:00 pm
UTC+01:00Location
Unit 1, Oakley Park, Station Road, Oakley, MK43 7RB Bedford, United Kingdom | Bedford, EN
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PRICE INCLUDES ALL MATERIALS!Create beautiful, practical and decorative willow pieces in a relaxed and friendly environment. These hands-on courses are designed to inspire, challenge, and give you lasting skills in the ancient craft of willow weaving.
Willow Bird Feeder 10.00 - 12.30 £60
You will create a spirally woven bird feeder. This attractive and functional piece once filled with fat balls is perfect for bringing wild birds to your garden. You might choose to make a smaller piece for your kitchen to hold onions and garlic.
Suitable for absolute beginners as well as those with some experience of willow weaving.
Willow Dragonfly Sculpture 1.30-4.00 £60
Dragonflies are a popular course. They make a lovely display piece for your garden or look attractive on the kitchen wall and features a jute rope handle, providing a robust and aesthetically fitting finish.
Suitable for beginners, though you may find this course challenging if you have issues with your fingers (e.g. arthritis).
Attend both sessions £114
About Your Tutor – Chaz Friend
I spent 24 years as a primary teacher and now work as a willow artist and willow craft tutor, teaching the ancient craft skills of willow weaving.
I work in schools and with community groups such as Scouts and Guides across the Midlands and beyond, delivering engaging and creative workshops. I also create sculptural willow pieces using metal armatures, both by commission and for pleasure, alongside running adult willow craft and basket-making courses and selling my handmade willow products.
A long-haul nature and dog lover, I enjoy nothing more than a long walk through woodland on a sunny day. I am married, with one son at home, four grown-up children and twelve grandchildren — so creativity, energy, and patience are always in good supply!
Good to know:
The venue has parking. Upon arrival, park in the car park at the front of the shop. Unload your vehicle into your classroom. Staff will then advise you where to park your car for the day at the rear of the complex.
There is disabled parking and ramps allowing access to all areas. There is a disabled toilet.
Staff will help anyone in need of assistance. Shop on site selling an enormous range of goods relating to crafting: dressmaking, patchwork & quilting, knitting & crochet, sewing machines and furniture.
There is a coffee shop on site called O for Coffee. Attendees at our classes are visited by coffee shop staff regularly throughout the day to take any orders. Anything consumed during your day is sold at a 10% discount. As well as a large choice of hot and cold drinks, the menu comprises savoury choices including sandwiches, paninis, jacket potatoes and soups. For those with a sweet tooth, there is a selection of cakes and scones made in-house with gluten-free and vegan options.
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Where is it happening?
Unit 1, Oakley Park, Station Road, Oakley, MK43 7RB Bedford, United Kingdom, Bedford, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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