In-person course
in Cambridge Maker & location details

2-day willow basketry course with Debbie Hall

Student making a basket on a SalixArts course in the studio at Blacksmith Cottage. French randing

Student bordering

Student with completed round basket

Student working in the sunny studio at Blacksmith Cottage.

small round willow basket in progress - laying down the border

Blacksmith Cottage

Garden between cottage and studio

Path to kitchen

Blacksmith Cottage

The pond and the garden from the studio porch

Description

2 Day Stake and Strand Willow Basketry Workshop A two day basket making course using locally grown organic willow. Enjoy a relaxing couple of days of basketmaking in beautiful surroundings. This workshop is suitable for all - the shape of the basket you make will be determined by your level of experience. Beginners will make round baskets and those with a few baskets under their belts can choose round or oval. Numbers are limited to just 4 participants so that you receive lots of individual attention, and this in-depth 2 day workshop allows plenty of time to really absorb techniques effectively without rushing - the best way to learn! Beginners can expect to complete a medium - large shopper with handle or a small log basket in the two days. More advanced students may get to make 2, though starting a second in class and finishing it at home is a more likely outcome. The majority of the techniques used are those of traditional stake and strand basketry. Handles can be traditional wrapped willow or wood. I can provide the former, but if you wish to use something a little more unusual, such as driftwood, contorted hazel, chunky vine or ivy then please bring your own material for a handle. Something with a pronounced curve tends to work best. Bed and breakfast at the cottage is now available. Please enquire if you're interested.

What's included in the price?

All tuition, simple, yummy vegetarian lunches and refreshments are included in the price of £240, but materials are charged for at the end of the workshop depending on how much you actually use - to give you some idea, the willow cost for a medium round or oval basket would be about £10 - £12, £14 -£16 for a small log basket.