The branch that was chosen as the fruiting cane must now be delicately folded on the horizontal wire, so that the sap can flow more slowly after the bend of the curve and the sap can push the buds as uniformly and equally as possible. This narrowing curve drawn by the shoot must slow the sap only slightly, and therefore the shape is that of an arc that extends after the first buds.

Arranging the wicker is one of the jobs for the winter days and nights. The willows need to be cut around December so there is enough time to do the work slowly; they are then separated by length and thickness, and the small side branches are cut so they can tie the tips of the shoots or make the ties for the buds growing in the summer.

Many producers still tie the vines with the cut willow branches, arranged by length and diameter, during the winter evenings. The binding is somewhat elastic, so it can expand according to the growth of the shoot; it also gives a use to the willows that are planted to drain the water from the soil. When the ties are cut at the end of the season it doesn’t leave any residue on the ground.

For someone unfamiliar with this binding method, it might seem difficult to learn, but it is really very simple. Hold the knife or the sickle with the middle, ring and pinkie fingers against the palm of your hand, and your thumb and index fingers are free to turn the wicker.

This type of wickerwork is becoming an increasingly difficult and time-consuming job for farming families, which are becoming smaller and smaller, while the demands of work in the fields and office are becoming more demanding. Many producers are opting for bindings made from mechanized paper threads, or other ties that allow the use of machines, which seem simpler.