Green and Semi-Green Willow

Willow can be woven while fresh, this is called green willow. It is very easy to weave in this state and many beginners choose to make projects with green willow to learn weaving techniques. However, it loses approx half its weight in drying and will shrink in circumference, causing the weave to loosen up. For some projects this is not a problem, for some weaves more rods can be added in later to fill gaps that form if desired. Wreaths and random weave objects such as a sphere are not really affected by the shrinkage

 

Willow that is half dry is called semi-green. At this state, the willow can be still pliable enough to work with or require just a bit of soaking. The rods will shrink some, but not much. Semi-green willow is preferred for projects used outdoors and made with thicker, longer rods such as: Fences, hurdles, trellises, screens, garden obelisks, and sculptures. Semi-green willow is available from early May to June before it is fully dried - depending on the weather.