September with Jo Sadler Willow
- Tori
- Sep 5
- 3 min read
There’s something about September that feels like standing in a doorway between two seasons. The air is cooler in the mornings, cobwebs sparkle with dew, and the hedgerows are heavy with the promise of autumn. It’s a month that always makes me want to slow down, notice the details, and spend more time outside gathering inspiration (and often, a pocketful of acorns).
August Reflections
August slipped by in a busy blur of weaving, shows, and countryside walks. One of my favourite moments was taking part in the Melplash Show. I spent the day working on a willow bull, inspired by a local farmer’s prize bull, and it was such a joy to share it with so many friendly faces at the event. To top it all off, my trade stand was awarded first place!
Behind the scenes, I’ve been updating the website shop with new sculptures and baskets. Each one is a unique, handmade piece, and it’s always special seeing them go off to new homes. Commissions have also been keeping me busy, if you’ve ever thought of having a bespoke sculpture made, now’s a lovely time to get in touch with your ideas.
I’ve also been in close contact with Musgrove Willows, who are reaching the very end of their last year's harvest stock. My orders are in to make sure I have plenty of material for the months ahead. If you’re a fellow weaver, it’s worth topping up now before we’re all waiting for the new harvest.
Wandering & Gathering
Whenever I can, I’ve been out walking. There’s something about late summer that feels like preparation, noting which hedgerows will offer the best hazel sticks, where the conkers are forming, and where the acorns are already beginning to drop. These small foraging walks remind me that willow weaving isn’t just about the studio, it’s about connection: to the landscape, the seasons, and the natural materials that shape the work.
Looking Ahead
As the year turns, my workshops are filling up fast. It’s always exciting to share weaving with others, especially as the darker evenings draw in and we crave hands-on creativity. Here’s what’s coming up with spaces still available:
Leaping Hares
Deer Workshops
Other Workshops
22nd November – Wreath & Swag half-day (Morning or Afternoon) workshop at Mello View, Winsham
22nd November – Frame Basket run one alongside the Wreath & Swags
Alongside these dates, I also run sessions at Musgrove Willows, Symondsbury Estate, and Studi0ne, so if you’re looking for alternative dates, do check their websites.
The Season Ahead
September is always a month of balance: the last warmth of summer days and the first hints of autumn colour. For me, it’s about preparing, ordering willow, planning new pieces, and gathering inspiration on long walks. I love that weaving reflects the seasons so closely: what I collect now, whether willow or hazel, will become sculptures months down the line.
As I step into this new month, I’m holding onto that sense of preparation and patience. I hope it inspires you too, whether through foraging, crafting, or simply noticing the changes as you walk through the countryside.
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