Whiskers and willows

Guess what I found in the park? Pollarded willow shoots!What? Leave them there?Last October in Oxfordshire, R and I watched several episodes of a show called Kirstie’s Handmade Britain, where Kirstie Allsopp learned various crafts and entered crafting competitions. One of the crafts was a willow tension tray.So I decided to make one.After all, I saw Kirstie demonstrate it, how hard can it be?It’s always good to have an appreciative audience.I’m afraid I’ve gone a bit willow mad with a try at willow cloches for the rhubarb and plans for willow pyramids for the sweet peas, and dreams of golden willow baskets for every possible use.Does anyone out there have any directions, leads on helpful books or just helpful hints for projects? I’d love to be able to make something spectacular, like a beautiful basket.