“I had an absolutely incredible time on the Weave, Gather and Make 2025 retreat. I initially joined because I wanted to try weaving, learn more about foraging, and visit Eigg—but I had no idea just how deeply the experience would affect me.
I’ve come away filled with energy and joy, and a strong desire to build on what I learned. I hoped the retreat might spark a new interest in weaving—and it definitely has! But beyond that, it’s ignited a deeper enthusiasm for connecting with nature and the land. I feel inspired to be more mindful of the natural world around me, to grow more in my own garden, and to continue exploring nature through craft. The exceptional food and Catherine’s beautiful garden were especially motivating in that regard.
One of the most touching parts of the retreat was the people I met. The group, as well as the tutors—Laurie, Catherine, and Pascal—were all incredibly generous, knowledgeable, and welcoming. They’re not only masters of their crafts, but also wonderful teachers. I learned so much—not just about willow weaving, foraging, and printmaking, but also about island life and what it means to truly connect with nature.
As an outdoor enthusiast, I also really appreciated that Laurie built in enough downtime for me to explore the island. Her local knowledge made my time on Eigg even more special—I wouldn’t have gotten nearly as much out of my adventures without her guidance.” Faye Collings. Weave Gather & Make 2025.
“Taking part in the willow weaving retreat on the Isle of Eigg was just what I needed. Stepping away from my usual busy schedule and learning a new craft with sustainable, natural materials, surrounded by the wild beauty of the island, gave me space to breathe and reconnect. The guidance was generous and encouraging, and I left feeling creatively recharged, inspired, and more connected to the land.” Jade Hassan. Weave, Gather & Make 2025.
“The Weave, Gather and Make Retreat run by Laurie King on the island of Eigg was magical. The sun shone every day. Our calendar was full of fun and surprises. The food, most of it made by Katrin, was always mouth-wateringly delicious. It was easy to fall asleep in our comfortable beds at the Glebe Barn Hostel after a full day and sated stomach.
On the first day and a half, we wove round baskets under the direction of Pascal and Catherine; it was a pleasure for all of us to work under his direction and their joint help; we were all proud of our finished products. We had a picnic in Catherine’s fabulous secret garden–an unexpected joy to sit on mowed paths of grass between flower beds with plants of different colours, shapes and sizes, most propagated from seed and all grown with seaweed.
During the second afternoon, we went to Singing Sands beach, where the dry sand did indeed sing to our shuffling feet and we swam, dunked or dipped our feet into the cold sea. That evening, some of us climbed the Sgurr of Eigg where we had truly fantastic views over to the Small Isles, Skye and Ardnamurchan and were privileged to see a magnificent sunset slowly disappearing behind the mountain peaks before we headed down.
On the third day, we did some foraging with our baskets, collecting leaves and ferns. We passed through meadows and woodlands, stopping next to a rippling burn for a calming meditation led by Laurie, which was excellent, effective.
In the afternoon we learned how to print our leaves and ferns three different ways with ink and rollers. In the evening, we finished a jigsaw puzzle, sang some songs and listened to a story told by Jade, a storyteller on the retreat.
That last night we treated ourselves to a bit of wine and beer. Looking around the table at supper, it was clear—we were a great group and we’d all enjoyed ourselves very much.
Maybe that’s what Eigg does for you.” Julie Gordon. Weave, Gather & Make 2025.
“The retreat was perfect, the course was very fitting for the island and having the natural elements to use as a resource. There were so many highlights to this retreat, I enjoyed learning about the different plants on the island and what they can be used for, the art making, the walks, taking in the dramatic scenery, learning about the history of Eigg with the local historian, and not forgetting the lovely meals we had, cooked with love by our chef. My only concern was with the journey to the island, by the local ferry, due to the weather conditions – the times had to be shifted around. But that’s to be expected.
My time on the Forage, Walk, Draw & Print course has been so beneficial to me in many ways. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in nature, art and Scottish rural island life”. Paul Pavey. Forage, Walk, Draw & Print 2025.
Crafting and crofting on the isle of Eigg 