The Craftiest Workshop

I find it amazing how sometimes a simple conversation can lead to inspiration.

My nieces were talking about wanting to build forts in our “forest”. I had commented that there was lots of wood for lean-tos but no spruce or pine tree boughs to put on top. That is what we used to do in air cadets when building our shelters. My sister in-law suggested making a roof out of willows since we have so many growing on our property. Her comment got my mind whirling with ideas of things I could make with willow branches.

I was thinking of willow bark tea. It is always used for pain relief in movies about times before modern medicine. Our willow trees have more skins than bark so I am not sure how one would use them to make tea.

My next thought was switches. Willows are often mentioned as the instrument used for discipline. This I CAN understand as I hit myself in the face a couple of times as I was weaving the wreaths; the willow came untwisted and snapped back. Being hit by one hurts a fair amount.

I then got my mind on the right track with decor items I could make.

The first item I tried to make was a wreath. I picked some green willows near the creek and didn’t do a great job of picking the same size of branches.

I made another wreath, bigger this time, using red willow branches.
I really like the look of this one.
I bought these pruning shears to trim the ends and put them in the picture to give you an idea of the size of the wreath.

We were dog sitting Loki and he was happiest outside so I thought I would try another project.
I saw some of these willow trays on pinterest.

I had to keep my branches on the roof of the playhouse as I worked because the dog kept trying to steal them.

No idea if would ever use this but it was fun to make.

I have made some twig stars in the past but willows are even better as you can get branches the same length and diameter.
I tied some burlap twine where the sticks met. I plan to make more of these.

The last thing I attempted to make with the willow branches was a heart.
This one was tricky because you had to hold it in the shape and tie at the same time.
Hubby to the rescue…he made me a bending template to make things easier.

Here it is hung on some hooks in the garage.

All these were done over the course of a week. It takes a bit of time finding the right size of branches for the specific project but it got me exploring all over our property.

I have a few other projects I would like to try, a basket and a plant obelisk.

I just love the fact that I have discovered another free medium to create with right in my own backyard. Weaving with willow is quite relaxing and the finished product is perfect to add to any rustic decor.