How to make a willow lobster pot?
How to make a willow lobster pot? Making a willow lobster pot, also known as a lobster trap or creel, requires some skill in weaving and understanding of the design principles. Here's a general guide on how to make one:
Materials Needed:
  1. Willow rods or branches;
  2. Pruning shears or a sharp knife;
  3. Twine or thin rope;
  4. Optional: waterproof sealant (like marine varnish).

Instructions:
1. Gather Willow:
  • Look for long, flexible willow rods or branches. Willow is an ideal material due to its flexibility and durability when wet.

2. Prepare Willow:
  • Trim off any excess branches or leaves using pruning shears or a sharp knife.
  • Soak the willow rods in water for several hours or overnight to increase flexibility and prevent breakage during weaving.

3. Create the Frame:
  • Start by making the frame of the lobster pot. Typically, this involves creating a rectangular or cylindrical shape.
  • If making a rectangular pot, form a rectangle by bending and securing two longer willow rods to form the sides, then cross shorter rods between them at regular intervals to form the top and bottom of the pot.
  • If making a cylindrical pot, create a circle for the base and then attach vertical rods around the perimeter to form the walls.

4. Weave the Walls:
  • Begin weaving the willow rods around the frame horizontally, using a simple over-under pattern.
  • As you weave, periodically push the rods together tightly to ensure there are no gaps.
  • Continue weaving until you reach the desired height for the pot.

5. Create the Entrance:
  • Leave an opening at one end of the pot for the lobsters to enter. This can be achieved by leaving a gap in the weaving or by incorporating a hinged door that can be opened and closed.

6. Secure the Structure:
  • Once the weaving is complete, secure the ends of the rods by tying them together using twine or thin rope.
  • Trim any excess willow ends to create a neat finish.

7. Optional: Waterproofing:
  • If desired, apply a waterproof sealant such as marine varnish to the finished pot to protect it from water damage and prolong its lifespan.

8. Let it Dry:
  • Allow the pot to dry completely before using it in the water.

Tips:
  • Practice weaving with willow before attempting to make a lobster pot to become familiar with the material and techniques.
  • Ensure that the weave is tight enough to prevent lobsters from escaping but still allows water to flow through freely.
  • Consider reinforcing the entrance with additional weaving or a wire mesh to prevent larger creatures from entering and stealing the catch.

By following these steps, you should be able to create a functional willow lobster pot ready for use in catching lobsters.