New hands weaving old ways.
We grow, harvest, make and teach.
The Willow Field
Hands-On Learning Opportunities at Marcassie Farm
Willow Coffins, Urns & Burial Shrouds
Naturally Useful Willow Harvest 2024. Photo credit to Mark Richards from Aurora Imaging.
The Willow field at Naturally Useful Jan 24. Photo thanks to Mark Richards from Aurora Imaging.
Naturally Useful willow harvest 24. Photo thanks to Mark Richards Aurora Imaging.
The Willow Field at naturally Useful
Volunteers 'skirting' wool fleeces
Harvesting willow Naturally Useful
Volunteers in the dye garden at Naturally Useful
Workshops at Naturally Useful
Weaving a willow basket
Coiling and cordage experiments
Happy Volunteer in the dye garden
Naturally plant dyed wool yarns
Felted shroud and willow bier
Basket making
Wooden spoon carving workshops
Willow Capercailie sculpture
learning Eco printing
Naturally Useful
Volunteering at Naturally Useful
Inkle loom weaving
Garden frame basket
Willow coffin
Naturally Useful products
Pole barn at Naturally Useful
How to felt a hat
Basket making students
Willow garden chairs
Hapazome printing
Felting a rug using the fleece from a treasured pet Alpaca.
Our ethos is to reconnect people to nature by making tactile functional things from materials that are naturally occurring and readily available. It is our intention to step lightly on the planet and by caring for it we are provided with the resources to make and sustain our lifestyle choice. The act of making using traditional hand skills can bring tranquility, connect us to the present, and provide peace of mind, body and spirit.
Botanical printing workshop
By sharing our skills we offer this experience to others through hand making. Students can gain confidence, feel a sense of empowerment and fulfillment through an holistic experience, resulting in a beautiful item that can be used and admired. It is our intention to help people from all backgrounds to experience the sense of well being that can be found in making. From a simple woven basket for the home or a naturally felted rug to your own willow coffin.
“Absolutely beautifully made and unique basket. Even more lovely than the photo, I am delighted.” said Tina in May 2021
Here’s a wee clip showing our day to day workshop life.