Traditional Straw Plaiting - Introduction to Corn Dollies

Straw plaiting and corn dolly making is a traditional craft that has been practised in many parts of the world for centuries. Corn dollies are symbolic objects, originally made from the last sheaf of grain to be harvested since it was believed that the spirit of a good harvest retreated there. This spirit was then woven into a corn dolly and kept safe until the following year or could be burnt, planted or given to the best cow to eat. In this way, good harvests were secured.

In this full-day workshop, you will learn the history of traditional straw plaiting, how to prepare wheat for plaiting and how to plait and construct a variety of corn dollies.

At the end of your workshop, you will take your corn dollies home with you.

A ge: TEEN 13-17 and ADULT 18+

S kill Level: NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

I nclusions: All raw materials (wheat, ribbon, thread, seed heads) and tuition

W hat to Bring: Snacks, lunch, water bottle, notepad and pen.

C lothing Guidelines: Comfortable to allow free movement of hands and arms. Closed toed shoes are required.

Elizabeth Woodroofe learnt the art of corn dolly making by watching and helping her mother as she demonstrated the craft at country shows and festivals.

Photo by Fred Kroh.