Making by the fire

A hands-on intro to ancient basketry and cordage making techniques with local and seasonal plants In this hands-on workshop we meet and decompress from the day around the fire circle, then get to grips with some familiar plants to explore their properties for twisting, weaving and coiling. You'll learn how to extract fibres from plants, how to twist cordage from plant fibres, and then have a go at weaving, coiling or stitching them to make simple forms. Expect cord, coils and nests that can make mats or basic baskets. What to bring Just yourself! We'll share a cuppa on your arrival and then the kettle is on the fire at all times, so we have plenty of caffeinated/uncaffeinated options to keep you hydrated. What to wear We'll be foraging for fibres/wood and sitting around an open fire, so please wear clothes you're comfy getting a bit dusty, smoky and brushed by foliage in. Thin layers are a good idea. Trainers, Crocs, walking boots and anything else with a closed toe are all fine – flip flops and sandals aren't suitable. Please avoid floaty clothes in synthetic fibres that could be a fire risk. Safety Our session might use knives, secateurs or saws, and will definitely involve a smouldering fire! You'll get a proper safety briefing and lots of support and supervision on the day but do get in touch with any worries or questions you have. I'm trained and experienced in forest school first aid, emergency first aid, and leading groups to work with fire and knives. Please do ask to see my certificates if you need any reassurance. Toilets Bennison Farm is an off-grid site with a long-drop compost toilet with handwashing. There’s cold running water, but not unlimited access to drinking water. Accessibility The fire circle is a 4-minute walk from the parking area across level but uneven ground. We'll sit on basic wooden benches with cushions, and logs but chairs with arms are available. The fire circle is accessible for an off-road or motorised wheelchair. If you need a wheelchair-accessible or no-step toilet, please email [email protected] before booking. Wildlife Bennison Farm is an organic site fringed by woodland so you may encounter any of the normal insect life of the British countryside. We don't expect to be troubled by insects but feel free to wear any repellents you might normally put on if visiting woods.