Current Projects

Willow Coffin Manufacturing Process

Cambrian Mountain Willow conducted a survey on Glau's behalf into the business of willow coffin production. At present, no-one in Powys has attempted to produce coffins in any volume. They have been produced to commission but sales are small. They have ascertained that there is a market for volume sales and they are now exploring the possibilities of volume production in a workshop setting. The project will focus on product development and their methods will be documented and made available to others who might also want to access the market. 
The market research report is available on the website now, and a report on the workshop process will be available when the work has been completed.

Handmade Welsh Dolls

Preliminary research revealed that Welsh made Welsh dolls are not available to buy. Very expensive collectors' items could be found, but not a product for the tourist market or for children. The Thomas Shop has been awarded financial assistance to research the market to ascertain the size of the potential market and the profitability of the product. The dolls will be made at The Thomas Shop using traditional and local materials, including cloths made from hand spun. dyed and woven yarns. Packaging for the dolls will also be made from traditional lipwork. Interest in the products has already been shown by major tourism sites in Wales.

The Horse: His industry, our Industry
 
This is a community based project based in Abercraf. The horse has played a significant role in the agricultural industry and in heavy industry in the Upper Swansea Valley and the south west area of the county. Locals will be involved in giving their oral histories and taking part in reconstructions. Filming will take place at various locations over the summer and there will be extensive research and exploration of the subject at Sleeping Giant's headquarters. The outcome of the project will be a DVD available to the public through libraries in Powys and from the Sleeping Giant Foundation. It will also be distributes to high school history departments.

Picture It

Glasu has combined forces with Arts Engine - a website for artists and craftspeople funded through Powys County Council - to engage a photographer to create images for marketing of art and craft work. The venues and dates will be announced when planning is complete, but each participant will be able to purchase a CD with up to 3 images of their work for display on the Arts Engine website. They will also be able to use their images to create promotional literature and to display on their own and Glasu's website. Further details about Arts Engine can obtained from Lucy Bevan, the Arts Development Officer for Powys.

Erwood Locomotive Restoration

The Friends of Erwood Station have successfully bid for financial assistance to cosmetically restore a Fowler 0-4-0 Diesel Mechanical Locomotive. the engine is sited at a popular tourist venue by the River Wye at Erwood. Close by is the Erwood Station Craft Centre, the Wye Valley Walk and a popular picnic site with access to viewing points over the river favoures by birdwatchers. The venture is community focused, as volunteers will work on cleaning, restoring and painting the engine. Researchers will uncover as much as they can about this engine's recent history. It has Welsh connections as it was used at St Athan's for military purposes. It was a prototype engine and will be of interest to those who specilaise in railway history as well as adding an attraction for the visitor to Erwood Craft Centre and its environs. if you wish to particpate in the restoration, please contact Michael Cunningham at the Craft Centre 01982 560674