Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th 10 - 4.30 DAY ONE Taking inspiration from both folk art and traditional straw work join Penny Maltby for a two day weekend workshop. Make your own decorative hanging in the 18th century Coaching Barn. Combine straw plaiting techniques with textiles and other decorative elements to make a folk hanging piece or chandelier, approximately 20 by 45 cm. Penny will teach you basic plaiting patterns to get you started. The workshop covers techniques for the spiral plait frame as well as other decorative straw plaits and embellishments such as ‘Suffolk Puffs.’ During the workshop Penny will cover preparation and grading of wheat used for straw making. She will also introduce you to exploring and combining textiles and using recycled metals to make embellishments for your design. DAY TWO The workshop focus is on construction and embellishment. Penny will be on hand to guide and support you through the process. LUNCH You are welcome to bring your own lunch, or treat yourself to a delicious £12.50 meal provided by The Goring Grocer, known for their exceptional food. The lunch includes a generous slice of quiche, seasonal salad, and a homemade sweet treat. Hot drinks and biscuits will be available all day. TOOLS AND MATERIALS All tools, straw and the frame will be provided on the day to make one chandelier. You will have a choice of a 15cm or 20cm frame as your base. A selection of beads, materials and other suitable items to incorporate will be available. ADVISORY NOTE A level of dexterity and patience is required as straw work can be time consuming and fiddly. WHAT TO BRING Any fabrics, plant materials or other embellishments you wish to use of your own. A large box or container to transport your final piece home, which will be approximately 30 by 40 cm depending on your design choices. TAKE HOME A traditional, decorative straw hanging. ... and lots of inspiration. MORE ABOUT YOUR TUTOR Penny Maltby is a member of the Basketmakers Association, Design Nation, Heritage Crafts and Prism Textiles. Penny is an artist and maker inspired by the role of traditional crafts in preserving cultural heritage. She has a passion for materials and experimental making and enjoys exploring new ways of using traditional materials and skills to create contemporary work. A tutor in straw work and mixed media, she loves to teach craft skills and encourage cross disciplinary use of materials and techniques.