Traditional Industry
John, Ray and Keith making hurdles in our barn.
Hurdle and basket making has changed little if at all over thousands of years. It is a world pre-Industrial Revolution, where the complexities of nature and the processes of production continue to elude engineers. Here no machine can replace man.
The hurdlers weave up to 10 strands of spraggly withies at one time horizontally on an upright jig, like carpet weavers at a loom. The craftsmen have to grapple with the springy willow to create the tautness necessary for hard-wear and long life.
Each hurdle, as well as other withy products, bears the mark of its maker. Visitors may choose their preferred style and their entire order is woven up by the same maker.
Please feel free to visit us and see our willow being woven.
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