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Although its uses have dwindled over the years, straw was once a greatly valued by-product of cereal crops. When harvested and stored well, it can be attractive, fragrant and resilient, and for generations straw has been used for decorative and practical purposes. This book explores the many different uses of straw, from early bedding and matting, straw huts and thatched roofs to woven baskets and stuffing for horse collars and archery targets. Using illustrations of a variety of straw crafts and considering the development of these skills, this book is a perfect introduction to a rural craft that has survived for centuries.

Arthur Staniforth worked for many years with the Advisory Services of the Ministry of Agriculture and with Reading Agricultural Consultants, specialising in straw utilisation.