Rachel's Willow Designs: The Story So Far
After 16 years working as a gardener, doing battle with the elements, I was looking for a change. I enjoy working with natural materials and fell in love with willow weaving. The beautiful Perthshire countryside around my home studio in Abernethy provides me with inspiration and sometimes natural materials to incorporate into my designs. I enjoy experimenting with colour texture through the use of different willow varieties and weaves. Each piece I create is unique with its own personality.
Training
I am a member of the Poldrate Arts and Crafts Centre in Haddington where I attend basketry classes. I have spent time sculpting with Karen Collins from Nauturally Useful in Forres, and Leilah Vyner from Dragon Willow in Yorkshire. I have also completed a MIG welding course at Fife College to enable me to weld my own frames for sculptures. I am a member of the Basketmakers' Association and the Scottish Basketmakers' Circle. I was delighted to be accepted as a Perthshire Artisan in 2023.
Sustainability
The sustainability of willow is key to my business. In the UK, willow growing is centred on the Somerset levels, with its low-lying flood plains providing the perfect growing conditions. Willow is incredibly fast growing, with over 10 feet of growth in a single year. Each plant is coppiced and harvested annually for many years, and absorbs carbon and provides a habitat for wildlife as it grows. It is also biodegradable.