Workshops
Nature-inspired creative workshops for adults, families and community groups. From willow weaving and botanical casting to wholesome eco-friendly activities and seasonal making around the fire, Catkin & Conker workshops are for everyone, whether you think you're creative or not. They are a chance to press pause and connect for a while; with yourself, with others, and with the beautiful wild world around us.
Available for public events, private gatherings and bespoke bookings within 25 miles of Oxted, Surrey, including hen do's, team days, family gatherings and community celebrations.
Upcoming public workshops are listed on our What's On page. Join the mailing list for early bird bookings and cheeky discounts.
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Have you ever tried weaving with willow? Using the whippy twigs from this water-loving tree, humans have been creating useful and beautiful things since ancient times. There is a lifetime's learning to be had working with this versatile material, but there are also many easy projects that allow a beginner to create something they can feel proud of - a decorative sculpture for your wall or garden, a bird feeder, or a simple frame basket ideal for taking on foraging adventures.
I hosted a willow weaving workshop, for friends. It was an amazing time. Lucy was so calm and relaxed. There was a lot of laughter, and everyone completed a dragonfly to cherish! Lucy is very passionate about her craft - I recommend this experience for anyone looking for a different idea for a gift or gathering.
BOTANICAL CASTING
Capture the forms of the season, or of your favourite plants in detailed botanical relief castings using flowers, foliage and found natural materials. Print your chosen pieces in clay before casting them in plaster - you will create an artwork to keep forever, and possibly spark a new full-time hobby! This is a magical process that slows time and invites you to notice the detail in nature.
Price guidance - private willow weaving or botanical casting bookings
Private workshops have a minimum booking fee covering up to 5 participants, with additional places charged at £25 per person. Willow weaving workshops typically start from £150 and botanical casting workshops from £200, with bespoke and combined workshops quoted individually according to the project, materials, duration and travel involved. I generally travel within 25 miles of Oxted, although travel costs may apply for venues more than 10 miles away. Venue hire, if required, is arranged separately.
Private bookings - how do they work?
Catkin & Conker attends your venue (within 25 miles of Oxted) with all the tools and resources you will need to learn something new, create something lovely, and have a lot of fun. Workshops are easy to host, with nothing more than a quick vacuum needed afterwards. We can work indoors or outdoors, with number of participants decided by your space (discussed during the booking process).
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SEASONAL & OUTDOOR WORKSHOPS
Depending on the time of year, workshops can include:
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fire lighting
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campfire cooking
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natural crafts
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seasonal decorations
Catkin & Conker can come to your venue or outdoor space, or help you find a suitable location.
Catkin & Conker regularly delivers creative nature-based activities for:
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councils
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stately homes
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festivals
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public events
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schools and organisations
Activities are designed to be welcoming, hands-on and accessible for a wide range of ages and abilities.
Please email info@catkinandconker.co.uk to discuss your ideas and make a booking. VOUCHERS ARE AVAILABLE - these make a unique and unforgettable gift!