Basketmaking workshop

Two day - Basketmaking workshop

Saturday 12 August and Sunday 13 August 9am - 5pm each day. 

During this two day workshop people will make a willow basket from a round base. Over a two day workshop people choose what they would like to make, a small log basket, or a foraging basket, a basket with or without a handle, and also can be shown how to make an oval basket from the round base.    The workshop is suitable for beginners and people with some experience of basketmaking, but wishing to develop their skills.  Willow baskets will be available to look at to give ideas to people for what to make if they choose.  A good choice of books on basketry are also available to look through and advice can be given on types of willow to use, for basketmaking and growing .   All material and tools are provided.  Please wear closed in footwear as we use sharp tools while making baskets.

Adults only - Some hand strength is required!

 About Catherine Beaumont 

I have been basketmaking since 1996 after attending a two day workshop at Bore Place in Kent.  I was keen to try more basketmaking and started to weave at home using willow from hedgerows and the local commons until I started to buy commercial willow. 

 I went to visit a second generation basketmaker in Guildford, Jack West, whose name and telephone number I found in a small booklet on basketmaking. 

 He was 80 then, but still basketmaking and for the next 6 years he continued basketmaking a couple of hours every day and was willing to teach me, and encouraged me, helping me to make a variety of more complex baskets such as donkey panniers when I was commissioned to make them.   I love to give people that same opportunity of the workshop where in those moments when people are finding the rhythm of the weave, there becomes a quiet and stillness except for the click and clack of the willow uprights as the basket is being woven. 

 I love that from a bundle of rods next to us, we can create a useful and beautiful vessel that can last many years.

www.weavingwillow.co.uk  Instagram catherinebeaumont_basketmaker