Went to Mow a Meadow

This introduction to scything will get you confident in handling Austrian scythes, adjusting them to your size and using them in ways that avoid strain and help you to cut effectively. We will learn about basic methods for maintaining your scythe blade whilst out in the meadow, and cleaning it at the end. Together we will cut an area of hay and improve on cutting technique. We will also cover best practices for drying the hay in the field and learn the various hay-making terms such as tedding and windrows (not windows!).

Scythes will be supplied for the purpose of the workshop but if you have your own, you could bring it along to get some tips on using it.

Peening or sharpening your blade may be demonstrated but it will not be covered in detail. We are happy to provide more guidance on this outside of the workshop.

Drinks and snacks appropriate for a summer meadow will be provided but please eat well before you arrive as scything can be hungry work! Please let us know any dietary requirements.

Also, it goes without saying that we will be knee-deep in grasses and surrounded by tree pollen so please prepare for this in the case of any allergies or hay fever.

Please also dress appropriately for being in long grass (possibly wet), and wielding a long blade! We will support you to use a scythe safely but we do advise you to wear trousers.

This workshop is led by Luke Justice, who leads on the annual hay making at Hockerton Housing Project and assists multiple community groups in the area to manage their meadows, orchards and grasslands. He is first aid trained and has specialist insurance to offer scything workshops.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Hockerton Housing Project, Gables Drive, Southwell, United Kingdom

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