Zinc pieces are used to prevent soil erosion; corbels are used to protect banks. Classic zinc and collar pieces are made from bunches of twisted together branches or “cradles” as the bundles of willow twigs are called.
From these cradles a framework is then formed which is the base of a zinc or collar piece. A second framework is placed at right angles to it and they are joined together with a special kind of rope, which secures itself when it gets wet. The frames of cradles are filled with bunches of brushwood. These are the smaller branches and toes of the willow tree.
This ancient technique is still in use and, when made according to the traditional method, i.e. entirely of willow, tremendously durable!
“We pass on the art of sinking from generation to generation. Where we used to tie the entire zinc piece together with natural materials, over time we have moved more and more to using non-natural materials. A nice trend in recent years is that we are actually going back to more sustainable alternatives and natural materials. So in my early years we were actually way ahead of our time!“
Teus Klop | Foreman and ‘zinc boss’ at Van den Herik since 1975
“Almost 30 years ago, I brought my first sinker on the Waal River with my father. A wonderful experience. Even now I still find zinc work the most beautiful thing there is!“
Theo Klop | Executive at Van den Herik since 1995 and indeed, the son of Teus
“Recently I, the third generation Klop, started at Van den Herik. It is very special to follow in the footsteps of my father and grandfather and also to be able to work with both of them.”
Tom Klop | Is a trainee at Van den Herik (2024) and the son of Theo
