Information for teachers and parents relating to materials, suppliers etc.

This workshop has been based upon the practice of a number of artists working in various schools in the Eastern Region.

Making sculptures this way is very flexible (sculptures can be made using all sizes using the same method), easy ( all ages and abilities can work this way) and fairly quick (impressive results can be seen in a short space of time) and requires no specialist tools (except pliers). Children can work individually, or in groups on larger sculptures.

Suppliers and Techniques

Withies

Withies are "farmed" in a number of places in England - all of whom deliver. The actual colour of the sticks varies, depending upon the type of willow and where it is grown. The best place to spot suppliers is in the back of a gardening magazine, as withies are now used a lot in gardening (fences, supports etc.). For starters try: English Hurdle Curload, Stoke St Gregory, Taunton, Somerset, TA3 6JD Tel: 01823 698418. £30 a bundle plus delivery

Withies are available all year round but they are at their greenest (most flexible) around November to March (the main harvesting time). Most come in unsorted bundles 3 to 5 feet tall. Although they seem expensive you get quite a lot for your money and they will keep - though they loose their flexibility as they dry out. Soaking withies overnight increases their flexibility.

Mod Roc

Mod roc is basically plaster impregnated bandage. It used to be used for plaster casts for broken limbs, and is used a lot in schools as an easy and versatile sculpture material. The dry plaster bandage is submerged in water for a few seconds, turns soft and mushy, and can then be draped over a form or armature (structure), and hardens within 15 to 20 minutes. The surface can be painted with water or oil based paints and varnishes (though if oil based paints are used then the mod roc must be completely dry as well as hard (takes up to a week to dry out). Remember - the water that you dip the mod roc into must be clean. If after a while the mod roc water becomes cloudy, it will stop the mod roc from going hard. Pour cloudy water into a plaster trap sink, or into a bucket, to allow the sediment to set, rather than block the sink!

Mod roc is available from most art shops, though buying it in small quantities is very expensive. Better to buy from a school supplies such as NES Arnold 0115 971 7700. A 14lb continuous strip costs about £18.00.

Binding Wire

Binding wire is available in craft shops or do it yourself shops, but it is cheapest to buy bigger rolls from builders yards. The thinner the wire the more flexible and easy to use it is. Not only is the wire used to join withies together, it can also help bend dry withies. By wrapping wire around the length of a withie you can then half break the withies at intervals to form a curve, which will be held in place by the wire

Alternatives to using wire: masking tape, string etc.

Send us your feedback!

About the online resource: Tell us what you think about the Working With Withies resource: feedback@accessart.org.uk