About Welig
Our Story
Welig
Welig is a Saxon word for withy - a bendy willow rod and a great name for a new venture, bringing together like minded creative people to fashion extraordinary objects working in willow.
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The aim of Welig is to facilitate a relaxed and informal experience, where the company, comfort, enjoyment and fulfilment is as important as the mastery of the ‘end product’. Whilst the sculptures and objects made may one day crumble, it is hoped the memory and enjoyment of your day remains.
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Welig is based at The Barn at Willowbrook, on the edge of a picturesque forest garden (agroforestry) where various trees, shrubs and many edibles are grown and chickens enjoy to forage. There are a few willow beds where much of the willow used for garden items is grown. Many birds and mammals share the space, including water vole, kingfishers, newts, bats etc. Weather permitting, anyone attending a workshop in the barn is welcome to use the forest garden to relax, take refreshments or munch their lunch.
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Welig offers an environment and experience that is fun, encouraging and creative. Welig also offers delicious cakes and bakes, refreshments and a truly scrumptious lunch as part of any course when held in The Barn.
All areas approaching and within The Barn are accessible by wheelchair users
About me - Alison
My name is Alison and as someone with a real love of encouraging others to be creative, I decided to start a new venture in offering people an experience that was exciting, creative and rewarding. On retiring in 2020, I converted a small dutch barn into a workshop a small walk from my home, Willowbrook on the Wiltshire / Dorset border.
Throughout a busy career, I squeezed as many willow weaving courses as I could into my weekends and holidays, learning a number of techniques and skills. I thank the talented and extremely experienced Mary Butcher who ran a number of willow courses at West Dean College, as my encourager and supporter. The sculptures I create are all in the random weave style.
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​I am a seasoned facilitator and presenter and as a willow enthusiast I love sharing my craft with others and learning from them too, whilst providing memorable experiences of working in willow. A really important part of a day at The Barn is the hospitality, especially the truly scrumptious cakes, bakes and meals prepared for attendees. I’m a serious foodie!
