willow weaving Workshops and Traditional crafts
Step into The Workshop with Justine Holdsworth, where hands remember what modern minds have forgotten. From Curious Beginner to confident Advanced Weaver, we invite you into a world where time slows down and everyday willow takes on new forms.
Today, we scroll and tap without pause. As a result, your hands lose touch with the act of creation. They are made for more than swiping screens and typing emails.
Do you remember the last time someone picked up something you made and asked, “You made this?” These days, that moment of pride is rare in our digital lives.
At The Workshop, you reconnect with traditional skills through clear guidance and premium, sustainably sourced materials. Most importantly, you do not need to be gifted. Instead, you grow your skills with the right instruction.
First, go from ‘all thumbs’ to nimble fingers in one afternoon. Then, lose yourself in the rhythm of weaving. Meanwhile, let modern noise fade as time shifts to nature’s pace. Here, your hands remember they are meant for creating.
To start, Justine guides you through each step, in person or via a digital download. Plus, we supply everything you need, even mailing our sustainably harvested willow straight to your door for digital workshops. Furthermore, you can tap into age old craft knowledge in the studio or at home.
Our Willow Weaving Workshop can feel like tapping into an ancestral memory that won’t let you go. From simple baskets to wild sculptural forms, we’ll be your guide through this historic craft that connects you to generations past.
For over 15 years, Justine Holdsworth has learned the secrets of willow. Along the way, she has translated them into forms both practical and whimsical. In 2023, she opened The Workshop in Whitley Bay, where she hosts workshops and weaving get-togethers. Since then, she has become a fixture in the weaving community across the North East.
Notably, she has built a reputation locally and across the UK, drawing new students, intermediate weavers, and advanced makers to tackle fresh challenges and develop new skills in willow weaving.
At this point, you can join her in a cosy Whitley Bay studio or, alternatively, start courses from The Workshop online.
Ultimately, your journey from casual crafter to accomplished artisan starts at The Workshop.
Our Classes
Online or In-person
Complete your first project in just ONE session!
Keep you weaving strong with practice.
Build your skill complexity with multiple weaves.
The Workshop is all about helping you build your curiosity into confidence. Our In-person and online workshops are taught at the right pace for your experience. Anyone who has the passion can grow their skill with practice.
To begin with, our monthly get-togethers help you unwind for a joyful couple of hours as you settle into the groove of weaving with locally harvested willow.
Over time, make it a regular meet and you will notice your skills improve.
Moreover, each month brings a new project at a different skill level, welcoming everyone to the magic of weaving with new and old friends alike.
