Using a two-person saw to fell a tree
Join us for a hands-on weekend of craft, connection, and creativity inspired by the natural world. Over a long weekend, you’re invited to step into a process of making and discovering – working with materials sourced directly from the land through green woodwork, plant dyeing and weaving, or wild clay.
Each workshop offers a chance not only to learn the foundational skills of a traditional craft, but to experience how materials – whether freshly harvested wood, dye plants or clay dug from the earth – can invite us into a deeper relationship with place and self. Guided by skilled tutors, you’ll explore the transformation of raw materials into objects that carry story, purpose and beauty through long-established practices, each attuned to the time of year and revealing the interplay between craft activity, season and the living landscape.
Firing clay pots in a pit
In green woodwork, start by felling a tree on site and then using a traditional two-person saw and transform the freshly felled timber into a three-legged stool with legs turned on a pole lathe.
In plant dyeing, printing and weaving[LT1] , use plants gathered on site to make beautiful botanical prints on paper and fabric and learn how we can create sustainable plant dyes for both animal and plant fibres. You will also have the opportunity to try weaving on a small tapestry style loom.
In a clay workshop – gather and prepare wild clay by hand, shape and burnish simple vessels, and take part in a traditional pit firing.
The dye garden at Fairhill Rise
This is more than a conventional skills course: it’s an invitation to engage attentively with the natural materials in a shared, purposeful environment. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced make, the weekend offers space and guidance to focus your attention and take part in a process that honours both material, maker and moment. It is an opportunity to meet the world through careful observation and embodied making.
Expect a welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and thoughtful conversation alongside the practical activities. This is an invitation to craft not just with your hand, but with attention, presence and care. Each day starts at 10am on Saturday and Sunday and finishes at 9pm on Saturday.
Cost for the event is £185 and includes all session materials and evening meals on Friday and Saturday and lunches on Saturday and Sunday.
Book your place now. Camping is also available and includes evening meal on Friday and Saturday, and breakfast on Saturday and Sunday. Please make sure you book camping alongside your place on the weekend if you wish to camp.
Please select which activity you wish to do on the weekend below: