Below are answers to some of the questions we’re most frequently asked about our willow, weaving materials, and natural supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Weaving & Basketmaking
How do I soak the weaving materials I’ve bought?
Most willow up to around 7 feet long can be soaked in a bath of cold water. Cane can also be soaked in a bath by gently bending it and ensuring it stays fully submerged. Other suitable soaking methods include inflatable paddling pools, long troughs, or strong plastic sacks filled with water.
How long should I soak willow before weaving?
Soaking time depends on the length, thickness, and dryness of the willow. As a general guide, most dried willow will need 3–7 days soaking in cold water. Thicker rods may take longer. After soaking, allow the willow to mellow for a day or two in a plastic sack so the moisture evens out.
Can I re-soak willow if it dries out while I’m working?
Yes. Willow can be re-soaked if it dries out during a project. Usually a short soak is enough once the willow has already been fully soaked and mellowed.
What thickness of willow should I choose for my project?
Thicker willow is best for structural work such as bases, frames, and handles. Thinner willow is more suitable for weaving, randing, and decorative detail. Many basket makers use a mix of thicknesses within one project.
What’s the difference between buff, brown, white, and steamed willow in use?
Buff willow is flexible and refined, commonly used for basket making.
Brown willow retains its bark and is more weather-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor work.
White willow has a clean, pale finish and is often used for decorative pieces.
Steamed willow is darker in colour with similar strength and flexibility to brown willow.
How do I make a basket?
Basket making is a skilled craft with many techniques. We recommend visiting our Books category, where you’ll find a range of titles suitable for beginners through to experienced makers.
Garden, Hurdles & Outdoor Use
What type of willow should I use to make hurdle panels or fencing?
The hurdling willow we sell is ideal for making traditional hurdles. It is left largely unprocessed, with the bark and many side branches intact, which helps fill gaps naturally and makes it a cost-effective option.
How should I treat and preserve hazel or willow hurdle panels?
Once the panels are fully dry, we recommend brushing on a good-quality Danish oil. Other exterior wood or fence oils can also be used to help protect the hurdles from weathering.
Which willow should I use to make willow wreaths?
We recommend using 6 or 7-foot brown willow. Buff, white, or steamed willow of the same length can also be used, depending on the look you want to achieve.
Which willow is best for sculptures?
Brown willow is the best choice for sculpture work. It retains its bark, making it more weather-resistant and well suited to outdoor installations.
Can willow be used outdoors year-round?
Yes, but untreated willow will weather naturally over time. Brown and steamed willow are more suitable for outdoor use. Applying an oil or wood treatment can help extend the lifespan of outdoor items.
What materials should I use as plant climbers?
Bamboo poles, 10/12mm cane, and 16/18mm tohiti are all suitable for plant supports. Straight 7–8 foot willow rods or willow sticks can also be used effectively.
Materials & Orders
Will all the willow in a bundle be exactly the same length?
No. Bundle lengths are an average. For example, a 5-foot bundle will contain willow averaging 5 feet, meaning some rods may be slightly shorter and some slightly longer.
Which variety of willow do you sell?
The main variety we sell is Black Maul, a strong and versatile weaving willow favoured by many basket makers.
Why is ‘Euro willow’ cheaper than your Somerset willow?
Euro willow is generally cheaper because it is grown and processed in Eastern Europe, where production costs are lower. It is suitable for entry-level projects but does not offer the same consistency, durability, or provenance as our Somerset-grown willow.
Why does willow vary in colour and thickness?
Willow is a natural product, and variation is part of its character. Differences in soil, weather, and growing conditions can affect colour and thickness, even within the same variety.
Living Willow & Sustainability
When can I buy living (green) willow?
Living willow is available from January to May, which is the best time for planting and establishing new growth.
How sustainable is willow as a material?
Willow is one of the most sustainable natural materials available. It grows quickly, is harvested annually, stores carbon, and is fully biodegradable. When grown responsibly, it also supports biodiversity and soil health.
Schools, Community & Beginners
Is your willow suitable for schools and beginners?
Yes. We regularly supply schools, colleges, and community groups. Willow is a forgiving material and is ideal for teaching practical skills and creativity.
Do you supply materials for community and educational projects?
Yes. We supply materials for a wide range of projects, from classroom weaving sessions to large-scale community installations and events.
What is buff willow?
Buff willow is boiled and then stripped of its bark. The natural tannins released during boiling give it a warm golden-brown colour. It is a refined material commonly used for basket making.
What is brown willow?
Brown willow is cut, air-dried, and bundled with the bark intact. It is particularly suitable for outdoor baskets and structures.
What is white willow?
White willow is kept alive in water after cutting and then stripped, producing a clean, pale finish often used for decorative work.
What is steamed willow?
Steamed willow is boiled and dried with the bark left on, producing a dark brown to black finish with similar strength to brown willow.