Imbolc Corn Dolly Workshop

This Imbolc, join in the age-old rural tradition of corn dolly making! Learn to make favours, dollies, and a maiden to offer to the goddess Brigid.

Date and time: February 1+2 from 1PM-5PM (up to 4 hours long, with a comfort break)

In this foundational workshop, participants will learn the basics of straw working, including 4-strand & 5-strand weaving with wheat, as well as other knot and crafting techniques. Participants will make a simple harvest favour tied with silk or raffia, a basic corn dolly, and a maiden for Imbolc/Brigid’s day decorated with your choice of recycled silk, raffia, and jute ribbon. You may also choose to add dried flowers and a charm to your maiden doll.

As we craft, participants will learn about different dolly-making traditions from Britain and Ireland, and leave with a foundational knowledge of how to weave with wheat. Participants will also have the option to take home a handful of wheat to continue weaving with. 

Please note that we will be working with damp wheat, which may mean that your clothes get a little wet. We do have a limited number of waterproof aprons, but please wear clothing you don’t mind getting a bit damp or mucky! 

Accessibility-wise, this workshop uses fine motor skills, similar to plaiting, macrame, or knitting. If you find these actions painful on the hands, you might find dolly making a challenge. 

Please note this is a beginner-level class, and those with a preexisting knowledge of straw-working may find it too foundational for their skill set.

Coffee/tea included, or BYOB!

Our workshops and readings are all held in-house at Wheel of Fate unless explicitly stated otherwise.