Traditional Craft Workshop, Wattle Hurdle Making with Hedges and Hurdles
Learn from Paul Matthews Award Winning Professional Hedgelayer
Master the Age-Old Art of the Wattle Weave
Step into our ancient woodlands for a truly immersive experience. Under the expert guidance of Paul Matthews, a master of traditional countryside crafts, you will learn to transform raw, sustainably sourced materials into beautiful, functional garden fencing.
Whether you choose to work with the rustic strength of Hazel or the elegant flexibility of Willow, you will leave with the skills—and the physical hurdle—to transform your own outdoor space.
1. The Hazel Wattle Hurdle (Two-Day Course)
Learn the quintessential heritage skill of coppicing and weaving. This course covers the entire process of creating a traditional “Wattle” fence.
- The Technique: Weaving cleft hazel rods through upright posts.
- The Result: A rustic, 6ft long panel (up to 4ft high) that serves as a durable, attractive alternative to modern fencing.
- Skills Gained: Understanding woodland coppicing, cleaving wood, and structural weaving.
2. The Willow Hurdle (Two-Day Course)
For those who prefer working with more pliable materials or wish to extend their weaving season.
- The Technique: Using pre-prepared willow (soaked for maximum flexibility), you will master the same structural weaves used in hazel hurdles.
- The Result: A completed hurdle (6ft length, 4ft–5ft height) with a refined, woven finish.
- Bonus Skill: This course is ideal for those interested in Continuous Willow Fencing—the techniques are easily adaptable for building fences directly into the ground at home.
🪵 Essential Workshop Information
- Expert Instruction: Paul Matthews brings years of professional experience in hedgelaying and hurdle making.
- Sustainability: All materials are sustainably sourced, reflecting Birtley Estate’s commitment to Woodland Management.
- Transport: Please ensure you have a vehicle (or roof rack) capable of transporting a 6ft wide panel home!
- Availability: We run a strictly limited number of these specialist courses each year to ensure high-quality tuition.
Why Join Our Workshops?
- Expert Instruction: Learn from Lorraine, a master of countryside crafts and sustainable land management.
- Sustainable Materials: Work with natural materials sourced directly from the local landscape.
- Unique Setting: Enjoy the inspiring surroundings of the Birtley Estate gardens and woodlands.
- Wellbeing: Discover the “slow craft” movement—proven to reduce stress and boost creativity.
