Knots & nets - make a Viking inspired netted bag with wooden handles. One day course 3rd or 4th October 2026

Spend a day with experimental archaeologist Vanessa Bunton, learning a craft of our ancestors with numerous modern applications.

For thousands of years across continents our ancestors learned to twist fibres together to make cordage.

Nets are fundamental to so many ancient and present- day domestic and commercial occupations.

Learn the beginnings of this heritage technique using natural tools.

The finished bag can be used for shopping, as a craft bag, and is suitable for re-enactment purposes. 

Vanessa Bunton is an Experimental Archaeologist, educator, living historian, tutor, mud-larker, heritage skills across time periods, and teaches heritage textile skills and prehistoric amber crafting.

This workshop will take place at the Ancient Technology Centre in Cranborne, Dorset.

Park in Cranborne Middle School Car Park and take everything you need for the day up with you. Please provide your own lunch. There is a shop in Cranborne should you wish to purchase something.

Teas, coffees & biscuits provided in the Longhouse kitchen. Toilet facilities on site. Seating will be wooden benches so you may wish to bring a folding camping chair or a cushion for your comfort during the day.

Please come prepared for the weather conditions. You will be in a sheltered place for the workshop but it will not be heated. 

If you have any questions please email castlehillheritageskillscic@gmail.com