History:

When humans began cultivating the earth, they believed that gods held sway over the life of their crops and that at harvest time the ‘Corn Spirit’ retreated and took refuge in the last sheaf standing. To protect the spirit, these remaining stalks were fashioned into a Corn Doll, enabling the spirit to rest through the cold, dark winter. In the spring, the Corn Doll was returned to the fields with the new crop in the belief that the Spirit would ensure the harvest would be a bountiful one.

Date: Saturday 28th March

Time: 10:30 am – 1:00 pm

Duration: 2 ½ hours

Course Details:  Join us for a unique, hands-on workshop. During the session, you will:

-Discover the rich history of corn dolly making, exploring its roots in harvest rituals and its evolution across centuries.

-Learn how this symbolic craft varies across regions — from the intricate Staffordshire Knot and the Welsh Fan, to the elegant Yorkshire Spiral and the East Anglian Drop.

-Experiment with different weaves used to produce different corn dolly designs.

-Create two traditional corn dollies of your own using time-honoured methods and natural materials. These handcrafted pieces will be yours to take home as a personal link to the past.

Perfect for beginners, crafters, and heritage enthusiasts.

Tutor Details: Our tutor is an experienced straw plaiter who has been producing corn dollies for over a decade.

Fee: £35 per person or £30 for members (includes museum admission charge of £15.00 per adult)

Participant information: All materials will be provided.

Refreshments: Breakfast tea and filter coffee provided free of charge. The Museum tearoom, serving a range of sandwiches, will also be open. Sandwiches can be pre-booked by the tutor on arrival.

Cancellation Policy: All workshops are non-refundable.

 

FREE