How to Weave a Simple Random Weave Circlet / Botanical Wreath Base

Materials & Prep

• Fresh or dried willow rods (any color; green, brown, or multicolor).
• Optional: ribbons, natural plant material (Ivy, flowers) for decoration.
• Understanding that green willow will shrink and may not last forever.

Step 1: Form the Base Hoop

• Begin with the butt end of a willow rod.
• Form a large circle, tucking the butt end underneath itself.
• Make the hoop slightly bigger than the head size to avoid kinking.
• Gradually shrink the circle to desired size, checking against the wearer’s head.

Step 2: Add Additional Willow Rods

• Introduce a second rod opposite the first to balance the circlet.
• Work rods in opposite directions for a random, “messy” weave.
• Encourage “hoopage” — natural loops and curves in the structure.
• Continue adding rods, alternating directions for a scribbly, textured appearance.
• Use as many rods as desired to create fullness and coverage.

Step 3: Weaving Technique

• Thread rods through gaps in the existing hoop to add volume.
• Avoid placing all rods in the same spot; distribute along the circle.
• Incorporate both inner and outer edges of the hoop for variation.
• Trim ends as you go to keep shape tidy and manageable.

Step 4: Final Adjustments

• Adjust overall shape (slightly oval or circular) to fit desired style.
• Ensure some openings for threading decorative plant material later.
• The circlet is intentionally loose and flexible to allow decoration.

Step 5: Decoration (Optional)

• Ivy, flowers, or ribbons can be woven into the structure.
• The random weave base provides natural attachment points.
• Placement can vary depending on whether circlet is worn on top or back of head.

Tips & Notes

• Embrace natural imperfections: bends, marks, or irregularities are part of the charm.
• Large initial hoops reduce kinking and make shaping easier.
• Working in opposite directions creates a visually interesting, botanical-friendly structure.
• Regular trimming helps manage the build-up and allows for adjustments.

If you want a more hands-on tutorial, or fancy trying something more advanced, see our range of willow weaving structure courses here.