Join Ian, a master Strawcraftsman, for a fascinating one-day introduction to the traditional craft of Straw Marquetry. With over 50 years of experience working with straw, Ian brings a deep knowledge of this intricate and beautiful technique, along with a passion for sharing its history and practice.
Throughout the day, you will be guided through the preparation and handling of straw, learning how this humble material has been transformed into decorative surfaces for centuries. Ian will explore the historical background of straw marquetry, offering context and insight into its place within traditional decorative arts.
The workshop is highly practical, with step-by-step tuition, demonstrations, and individual guidance. By the end of the day, each participant will have created a veneered bud vase, showcasing the natural colour, sheen, and pattern of straw marquetry to take home.
All materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary – just patience, care, and an interest in traditional craft.
Please note: this workshop involves the use of extremely sharp blades and craft knives. For safety reasons, it is strictly 18+ only.
What to expect
Time at ArtisOn is designed to take you away from it all and provide the environment, the time and the guidance you need to create. You can expect a warm welcome, skilled and friendly tutors plus the chance to meet like-minded people keen to share ideas and experiences. You can even leave us to clear up the mess! There will usually be two workshops going on and we encourage everyone to mingle and be nosey about what the other workshop is up to.
Arrive in time to meet other participants over a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits before beginning your session at the appointed time. There will be a mid-morning break for refreshments and a chance to talk over progress with others. Lunch is usually around 12:45 for about 45 mins – you can expect a homemade 2 course lunch. The main course will be delicious but don’t overdo it as the puds are usually worth waiting for! There will be a further afternoon break with the most wonderful cakes from Roots & Fruits Home Bakery, a North Yorkshire micro-bakery producing handmade bread and cakes. All food and refreshments are included in the price of the workshop.
Finish time is given as a target – there are occasions when the session may overrun so do let us know if you need to be away promptly.
We aim for your day to be a real treat… of course you could always learn a new skill in a shed or a draughty village hall with a curly sandwich, but we want you to have more fun than that! So we make it a day being looked after, with good food, good company and great inspiration!
