Weave a Willow Basket Weekend

A practical, hands-on, weekend of learning willow weaving and basket making skills. You will complete a round basket with a strong handle suitable for collecting your eggs, collecting fruit, or even a trip to the shops. The class is suitable for beginners or those with some weaving experience. There will also be a chance to learn about willow growing, harvesting, and preparation.

Available Dates

We are working on dates for 2024, please contact us if you are interested in attending this workshop

Programme

Two days 9.30am - 4.30pm

1. Introduction
An introduction to the materials and tools being used. The preparation of willow will be discussed
2. Making the basket
Over the weekend you will be introduced step by step to the weaving techniques needed to make a base, weave the sides, and add a handle. You will learn the techniques of pairing, french randing, waling, turning down a border, and making a strong wrapped handle. Those more experienced will be able to refine the above techniques and learn a different side weave if desired.
3. Willow Growing and Preparation
There will be an opportunity to discuss willow growing, harvesting and preparation.

What to Expect

A fun, practical 2 days learning willow weaving basketry skills.

You will be able to take home a strong basket with a handle that you have made, along with knowledge of the types of willow available, where to buy it, and how to prepare it.

Willow weaving requires some strength and dexterity in the hands and course participants should be aware that sharp tools will be used and some activities will require reasonable physical input.

What to Bring

Please bring a packed lunch. Refreshments will be provided, including a homemade cake.
Parking is available at the entrance to our farm and our training room is just a short walk down our track.
Bring yourself, confirmation of your booking, a notebook and any questions you may have.
It is helpful if you can bring your own secateurs and a sharp knife suitable for wood if you have one. Tools to share will be provided.
Please arrive 15 mins before the start of the course for a prompt start

Cancellation Policy:

To ensure all attendees get the best experience from their training we only run our courses in small groups.

We therefore must operate with a strict cancellation policy: Refunds (or booking transfers) are not given for cancellations made within 2 weeks of the course. If a cancellation is made with more than 2 weeks notice but within 6 weeks of the course date, then we will try to re-sell your tickets, if we are successful then a refund will be issued for the full amount less a £10 administration fee. If a cancellation is made with more than 6 weeks notice, then a full refund will be issued.

Click here to view our Terms & Conditions or contact us for further details.

John Waller

Tutor

John has been involved with the environment, ecology, woodland management,and conservation since 1990. He originally volunteered with various conservation groups and was employed at Bore Place as a Conservation Officer to manage the 60 acres of woodlands and run the Green Wood Workshop. A fully qualified tree surgeon and coppice worker, John makes a range of woodcraft products, runs courses and offers woodland advice and tree surgery across Kent, Sussex, Surrey and South London.