Learn about traditional rural crafts at Chiltern Open Air Museum on the 25th and 26th September 10am to 5pm. During this special weekend you can see some traditional straw plaiting and watch a traditional bee skep being made. You can see some flax spinning demonstrations and learn about the processes involved. Local wood carver and turner, Steve Keene, will also be onsite carving and selling his handmade items. Down in the museum woodlands you will find a traditional bodgers area with pole lathes, saw pit and charcoal kiln. Volunteers will be busy making hurdles and other traditional items and you can chat to them about what they are making and how it is done. In the museum’s earth cottage you can discover what traditional items are being cooked in the kitchen. Trainee sheep dog pup, Jess, will be onsite demonstrating her sheep handling skills and you can discover what the blacksmith is making in his forge. Visit the tin chapel and see the traditional Harvest display made from produce grown in the museum’s ‘Dig for Victory’ allotment and gardens. On Saturday only, the Decorum and Chilterns Pottery Guild will be carrying out pottery demonstrations and making a traditional farm out of clay and visitors are being invited to contribute by making a farm animal. This is a fantastic opportunity for the whole family to learn about traditions and ways of the past. Visit www.coam.org.uk to book your tickets.