Workshops
Learn the art of Willow weaving, at workshops run in and around Belper
Emma Parkins hosts regular willow weaving workshops across various venues in Belper, Derbyshire. Each venue offers spacious environments with kitchen facilities, ideal for a day of creative exploration. The main venue is Number Twenty Eight, the community space in the Market Place.
Our workshops cater to all skill levels, from beginners to those looking to tackle more complex sculptures. Choose from half-day sessions, full-day immersions, or weekend-long workshops to dive deeper into the art of willow weaving. Special theme days—like hen or pheasant making and crafting poppy seed heads—offer unique projects for everyone.
Emma's approach focuses on the sculptural aspects of willow weaving, incorporating basic basketry techniques without the emphasis on traditional basket making. This unique blend ensures a comprehensive learning experience, nurturing both creativity and technique.
To secure your spot, simply browse the upcoming dates below, click 'Book' for your chosen workshop, and complete the payment process. You'll receive an email confirmation shortly after.
Interested in giving the gift of creativity? Vouchers are available directly from Emma Parkins. Contact us via phone or email to purchase.
Scheduled Workshops
27
Sep
Wise Owls
Workshop
10am - 4.00pm
No. 28 Community Centre, Belper Market Place, Derbyshire,
All
Introducing Owls, for the first time. I have wanted to teach this for a while as I thought it would be a hoot!! Make a wise owl, either sitting or flying, depending on your ability.
I shall teach you step by step through each stage, ensuring you are happy with each aspect. We will be using the technique of random/freeform weaving to build and shape, then add details to create personality.
You will be really happy with what you can achieve, even if you have never used willow before.
03
Oct
Fox sculpture
2 day course
10-4
No. 28 Community Centre, Belper Market Place, Derbyshire,
All
We shall spend the whole weekend immersing ourselves in making a detailed fox sculpture. Two days gives you the chance to spend time creating a really solid piece with movement and character and getting those finer details without rushing. I shall be helping you with every step and if you are familiar with using willow, it will be a great opportunity to expand your skills, maybe getting creative with poses.
It is suitable for all levels of ability. This is on Sat 3rd and Sun 4th Oct.
07
Nov
Deer in a day
Workshop
10-4pm
No. 28 Community Centre, Belper Market Place, Derbyshire,
All
Create a simple small deer, in a day. Join me to make a simplified deer using the freeform weaving technique. The main emphasis will be on making a basic shape then weaving it to fill.
05
Dec
Christmas Penguins
Willow penguin ( image above is temporary )
10-4pm
No. 28 Community Centre, Belper Market Place, Derbyshire,
All
I am really excited to bring this new Christmas Theme of Penguins. I thought what a lovely idea to make a little penguin that can be used to decorate or as a gift for that special person.
We will be making them using the technique of creating simple spheres to build the shape, then random weaving to fill and adding those very penguin features, feet, wings and beaks. It will be a full on day but well worth the hard work. I am sure that there will be time for mincepies too.
