An opportunity to learn the heritage skills of straw plaiting at Amersham Museum on Saturday 1st April 2023. Experience the working lives of the straw plaiters living in the Chilterns during the 1800s.

Structure:

The workshop will be led by Veronica Main MBE who is one of the last traditional straw plaiters. There will be an introductory talk then participants will learn just as the children did in the 1800s, although in much nicer conditions. Starting with preparation of the plaiting straw the group will make a simple plait, learning how to make a long length, but not the twenty yards (18metres required of the plaiters). You will then split and mill straw and make a split straw plait. This course will provide a basic introduction to the necessary skills.

Timings and Details:

• Three-hour course 09:30 to 12:30
• No need to bring anything and no previous skill/experience required
• Not suitable for people with allergies to straw dust
• Please be aware, plaiting requires manual dexterity and is close work
• 10 places available
• Not suitable for children under 10 years of age
• Refreshments will be provided, toilets on site

The museum is situated in the heart of historic Amersham Old Town. Please Click on this link for directions.

Sewing Straw Plait

This complementing course will be held on the afternoon of the same day. You can stay or and take both courses if you wish and learn a greater range of skills. Click on this link for more details.

If you require overnight accommodation and/or lunch, there are numerous hotels and restaurants close to the museum, email [email protected] if you require further information.

Tickets must be pre-booked

There are 10 places available for each course

The cost of an individual course is £30

A discounted price of £25 applies if you book both courses, you must book separately for both courses. Click on this link to book ticket for the afternoon workshop