Willow

by Jenny Crisp

[annieb123]

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Willow is a weaving/crafting tutorial on growing, harvesting, and creating objects from willow. Released 18th Oct 2018 on Quarto's Jacqui Small imprint, it's 144 pages and available in hardcover and ebook formats.

Author Jenny Crisp has combined the ancient craft of creating with willow along with more modern design elements. I was impressed to see that this book also includes a fully usable introduction to sourcing materials including a solid beginner section on growing one's own canes. That alone is worth the price of the book.

The book starts with a good introduction to history and craft as well as the section on sourcing and growing materials. The next sections deal with sorting and preparing materials as well as an introduction to necessary tools. The basic techniques chapter which follows covers the different braiding techniques as well as hand care and suggestions for safety. The last 2/3rds of the content are complete tutorials for 20 different projects, beginner to advanced. These are fully photographed and clear and concise including measurements, materials, and necessary tools. The photography is beautiful and clear and fully supports and illustrates the instructions. The end of the book includes a resource page slanted to the crafter living in the UK.

Wonderful introduction to crafting and weaving with wood/willow. The projects are very attractive and most are functional (baskets, vessels, screens, etc). There are some purely decorative pieces included (a simple door wreath, a decorative star, napkin rings, etc).

Probably the best basket weaving tutorial book in my library and certainly the only willow specific one in my library. Highly recommended.

Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.