Rediscover the bushcraft skills of our ancestors by gathering a range of plants in the wild, then transforming these into beautiful, simple baskets with the guidance of experienced tutor Sandra Barker.  No previous basketry knowledge needed.

AIMS

Participants will learn about the many wild materials that can be used for basketry, and  gather some for themselves during a walk around the farm. We will then each make a simple basket, learning simple weaving skills 

Participants will learn to –

• Identify and test suitable materials
• Name the different parts of a frame basket, understanding their purpose
• Sort and prepare the materials
• Employ simple techniques to build a frame basket
• Know some of the plants that can be used

RESOURCES

• Basketmaking books and publications
• Albums of articles and photos of baskets in variety
• Some hedgerow baskets that show a variety of styles and materials

PROGRAMME

SATURDAY

After an introduction and some words about tools and safety, we will look at some baskets, analysing their structure and qualities. This will help us decide what to look for in the wild.

A foraging trip into the grounds of Assington  Mill will then allow  us to pick some twigs to begin making baskets.

Back in the workshop, Sandra will demonstrate step by step how to begin building the simple frame basket. The rest of the day will continue with learning and building in this way, possibly with the chance to go foraging again.

As we collect materials students will be encouraged to label the species they are using to keep as a reference for their own use at home.

SUNDAY

After reviewing our progress, we will decide what materials we still need to gather.

This will probably lead to another foraging trip.

Working through the final stages of the basket, there will be time to talk about development of our new skills.

At the end of the afternoon we will review all learning, and there will be resources on offer giving pointers for future study.

WHAT  TO  BRING

Secateurs, Stanley knife, small hammer, string, weight (small & heavy) pad & pencil, ruler, wellies, warm clothing, garden gloves.

Comments from participants:

This was a lovely weekend.  Challenging in the best kind of way.  We discovered/learnt a lot about baskets, materials and I learnt lots about myself.  Great fun and productive.  Thanks for your hospitality.  Jane

A wonderful inspiring setting that enhanced the learning experience.  Sandra was an excellent tutor who was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and extremely patient!  Thank you for a great week.

Thank you for a great weekend.  The care and attention you gave us was first rate and the booking and food were excellent!  Wonderful venue!  Jan Mitchell

Fantastic place/facilities etc.  Enjoyed every bit of it.  Very well looked after by hosts.

Grand company all weekend and the venue is beautiful.  The food was excellent.

.