Join expert maker, Rachel Evans, for this rewarding introduction to basketry. Use traditional techniques to create a round basket of your choice. This could be a shopping basket, a serving dish for fruit/bread or an asymmetric basket with a wooden handle.
You will learn how to construct a round base, how to ‘stake up’ for the vertical sides and use different weaves to form the main body of the basket. Borders and handle techniques will vary depending upon your choice of basket.
All abilities welcome – from the complete novice to experienced basket makers.
“A totally absorbing course in a delightful setting. Rachel is a patient and highly skilled tutor. I am absolutely thrilled with the basket I created under her watchful eye!”
Tutor: Rachel Evans
From her workshop in the Staffordshire Moorlands, Rachel makes a range of traditional British baskets as well as more inventive, contemporary pieces. She often works to commission, creating artisan baskets, lampshades and coffins. She grows and harvests her own willow, selecting unusual varieties to add colour and interest to her work. She also enjoys foraging for natural materials to include in her baskets.
To view Rachel’s own website visit www.wheatcroftwillow.co.uk
Materials
Rachel uses locally coppiced willow from Staffordshire along with willow from Somerset. Tools are provided.
Materials fee: approx £20 – £30
Note: This is in addition to the course fee
Please bear in mind that basketmaking is hard on the hands. If you suffer from hand, wrist or shoulder problems it may not be the course for you.
Timings & Refreshments
Join us from 9.30am for tea/coffee & introductions
Tuition: 10.00am – 4.30pm
We take an hour for lunch and breaks whenever you wish
Lunch & refreshments are included in the course fee
Help yourself to drinks & biscuits. Home-made cake mid afternoon