Meet the Maker

Away with Willow was founded in 2025 by Koren Calder.

About eight years ago, alongside her 30+ career in the charity sector, Koren who grew up in farming, began rewilding a small holding and growing a variety of trees including a willow field.

Over time, Koren began using the willow to weave baskets. Koren is passionate about the environment and sustainability and started exploring the idea of using locally grown willow to handcraft coffins that would provide a gentle, natural farewell for our loved ones. That’s when the idea of Away with Willow was born.   

An Away with Willow Coffin is a sustainable option to consider during end of life care preparations, enabling loved ones to return to our natural world in a lovingly, handcrafted construction.

“I use a free-flowing technique which creates a different texture and over all look. Adding woven willow hearts I hope will also create the feel of a natural loving farewell in a coffin that I promise I will weave with love.

At a time of sadness and farewell, I can also help you incorporate the healing power of the natural world. When you purchase an Away with Willow Coffin, a tree will be planted in a new woodland in honour of your recently departed loved one”

Koren regularly runs willow weaving workshops, teaching people how to make handcrafted items.