Owen Jones

Owen Jones runs a number of workshops throughout the year. If you would like to have a go at making an oak swill yourself then come along to a workshop.

Courses run over three days during which time we cover all aspects of swill making: starting with oak and hazel in the round, cleaving, boiling and riving the oak; dressing and steam-bending the hazel rim or bool; and finally everyone will weave and complete their own swill.

The course is quite intensive but no previous experience in either basketry or green wood working is required. All tools and materials are supplied. All you need is stout footwear and oldish clothes.

Feedback from previous participants has indicated that they really enjoyed the course, the challenge of learning how this ancient craft is practised, the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to meet other people, as well as the satisfaction of coming away with a completed swill of their own making. So if you feel like doing something totally different I will welcome you on one of my courses this year.

Owen is running courses at the following venues during 2010:

At my home in the Lake District

In 2010 I am running 4 courses from my home in the Lake District. The course fee is £145 per person.This includes all materials, a vegetarian lunch each day and all teas & coffees.

Mon - Wed   12th - 14th April                   `Spout Meadow'         

Mon - Wed   14th - 16th June                    High Nibthwaite,        

Wed - Fri      18th - 20th  August               Ulverston

Fri - Sun        1st - 3rd   October                Cumbria LA12 8DF

At other venues

• Friday 12th - Sunday 14th March. Acton Scott working farm museum, Shropshire. Acton Scott Museum 01694 781 307

• Friday 26th - Sunday 28th March. Woodland skills centre, Bodfari North Wales. Woodland Skills Centre

• Friday 8th - Sunday 10th October. Nr Balmoral, Scottish Highlands. Highland Yurts Paul Spencer, 01339 742 295

How to book Courses run at my home:  
The best way to book is to phone, or e-mail, to check availability of places.  I will then pencil you in and hold your place for 7 days until you confirm by sending a deposit cheque for £20.  The timings of the course are 9.30 am to 5.30 pm each day. Please contact me to book a place on these course. I can also provide information about local B&Bs and campsites; please ask me for details when booking a place.  A £20 deposit is requested on booking, cheque payable to 'Owen Jones', with the balance to be paid one month prior to the course, for which I will send an invoice.