Design Factory designer/maker Rachel Carter is busy preparing to take her green Garden Project to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Tuesday 25th - Saturday 29th May 2010.

Download her project brief here.

You will be glad to hear that Rachel has still managed to make time for her willow workshops:

Rachel Carter designs and creates sculptural pieces for the garden or landscape setting, using mild steel and willow.

Why not try your hand at creating a woven willow bird feeder or a pair of willow obelisk for the garden.

All courses are run at the Shed 2 Studios where Rachel creates her willow sculptures.

Shed 2 Studios boasts a collection of highly skilled designer/makers from within the Creative Industries. You will be able to experience the creative atmosphere when you come along to try your hand at creating your own work to take home.

Nestled down a small alley, the studio is housed within an old style factory building with original curved windows running down its length and open plan workspaces.

Workshop details:

Willow Bird Feeder Workshop
Thursday 25th February 2010: 1pm - 4pm or Tuesday 16th March 2010: 10am - 1pm
Cost: £18 per person

On this workshop you will be able to create your very own willow bird feeder using a pre cut wooden centre, freshly soaked willow withies and a basic basket weave using two willow withies.

Time needed: approx 2 - 3 hours
Equipment required: apron
Skill level: basic/medium

Willow Obelisks Workshop
Thursday 4th March 2010, 10am - 1pm or Tuesday 9th March 2010, 1pm - 4pm
Cost: £30 per person

On this workshop you will be able to create a pair of willow obelisks of your own design using freshly soaked willow withies. These make a stunning addition to your garden for plant support or for climbing plants.

Time needed: approx 2 - 3 hours
Equipment required: apron
Skill level: basic

Note: you will also have to fill in and send a Booking Form to confirm your booking, these can be downloaded from here.