Willow Bee Skeps

Product description

This hands-on course will guide you through the age-old craft of creating a woven hive using willow.

Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike, you’ll learn step-by-step techniques, understand the history of skeps, and leave with a functional and beautifully crafted skep to take home. a stunning addition to a garden border for bumble bees to chill out in in the shade in summer.

Traditional bee skeps, were used to keep bees in, before the beehive was invented. A few beekeepers still keep bees in skeps today, although these days, they are mostly used for collecting swarms of bees and for decoration in the home or garden.

A ‘skep’ is a basket. Consider the second syllable of the word ‘basket’ – a ‘bee-skep’ is a basket for bees. Willow skeps also known as an ‘alveary’ – possibly the preferred way of crafting bee-skeps before the Anglo-Saxon era.

Skep beekeeping waned in the UK after WW1, when a government restocking scheme only gave a subsidy for bees in boxes, not skeps. Skep still continued to be made for swarm collection – walls got thinner, capacity and shapes changed and continue to change to this day.

Skep making is a red status heritage craft, and we are dedicated to helping keep this important skill alive

Why join?

• learn a sustainable and eco-friendly skill
• connect with like-minded individuals
• take the first step towards your beekeeping journey or simply enjoy a unique, creative experience

Spaces are limited, so book your spot today and create something truly special!

Please note:

• this course is physically demanding, and you need a good degree of manual dexterity/the ability bend for long periods of time whilst working

What do I need to bring?

• Glasses (if you need them for close-up work).
• Notebook and pen if you wish to make notes.
• Old clothes, covered, flat shoes (no sandals or open toes).
• Something to tie hair back with (if needed).

All materials included. Suitable for all weaving levels, great for beginners 18+. 
Should you have any specific needs, please make us aware before attending the course.

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