The Coracle Project

Inspired by monastic settlement at Kilmun, and curious about migration to the West Coast of Scotland from Ireland, I decided to investigate coracles.

Here's a gallery of the process.

Many lessons were learned, and there's definitely more to follow!

In the beginning

Creating the shape with hazel rods, the seat was threaded on and willow woven to give it strength.

The rods are bent into shape and tied in

Once everything is tied in, it's time to lever the basket out of the ground.

Traditionally, animal hide was used, but it's more common now to use thick calico fabric.

The fabric is pulled tight and stitched on to the frame.

Bitumen paint covers the calico for waterproofing. It has a leathery feel once it's dried.