WHY WILLOW?

Willow is our usual material of choice for several good reasons. Famous for its sinuous beauty, willow is also uniquely workable into shapes and structures that are as tough as they are elegant.

The craftsmen who create our products have a deep respect for tradition, and choose methods of harvesting, storing and working the willow that have stood the test of centuries.

Freshly cut, or “green” willow is already moist enough to be worked. It is usually harvested in the early months of the year and kept moist in a dark location until needed. Dried willow, on the other hand, can be used anytime providing it is pre-soaked.
Boiling for up to eight hours prior to stripping the bark, gives a refreshing light colour to the willow. Steaming imparts a darker, earthier hue. POTENTIAL’s craftsmen employ both methods.

We also offer a range of stunning birch and hazel products.

All of our products come from renewable coppiced sources.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR POTENTIAL PRODUCTS

Any respected brand of wood preserver will help keep your willow looking good and prolong its usefulness. However for the best results our craftsmen recommend that you apply a 50/50 mix of boiled linseed oil and turpentine. This should be done annually. Products such as baskets and hampers do not need to be treated. If you have any queries about the best way to enhance the beauty of your POTENTIAL products, do not hesitate to contact us.