Large asymmetric basket : 3 day course

Large asymmetric basket : 3 day course
 
DATES:  Friday 16th - Sunday 18th April 2027
 
TIMES: 9.30am - 4.30pm each day
Please arrive from 9.30 for tea/coffee, to begin at 10am
 
VENUE: Discovery Centre, Wyre Forest Visitor Centre, Callow Hill, DY14 9XQ
 
Course Overview
This 3-day course gives improvers and intermediate makers the opportunity to develop their existing skills while working on a larger and more challenging basket.
 
The inward shape of the basket provides an opportunity to explore how the choice of willow, as well as the construction and weaving techniques, can be used to create a strong, balanced form. You’ll develop your understanding of how a basket is shaped as it grows, while learning techniques that will help you approach more complex designs with confidence.
 
The course is designed to give improvers and intermediate makers the time and space to refine their technique, explore different weaving patterns and work on a larger-scale basket from start to finish.
With a maximum of 7 participants, there will be plenty of individual support from Sarah throughout the course, while also having the opportunity to share ideas and techniques with other experienced basketmakers.
 
Experience: Improvers/Intermediate makers
This course is suitable for improvers/intermediate makers; those who have  made some willow baskets before and are able to work reasonably independently using basic willow-weaving techniques. Please feel free to contact us directly if you have questions or if you’re wondering whether this course is for you. Participants must be 18 years of older or older to attend our courses.
 
Course Details
 
Day One – Understanding willow, making the base and preparing the basket
We’ll begin by discussing how willow is prepared, then learn how to select, sort and grade the material ready for weaving – an important skill for creating a balanced basket.
 
You’ll then make a round base using the ‘stake and strand’ method. There will be options for those with more experience to learn about different weaves and joining techniques for the base.
 
You’ll then prepare and insert the uprights before beginning to weave the ‘upsett’, establishing the shape of your basket ready for the following day.
 
Day Two – Building and shaping the basket
You’ll begin weaving the sides of your basket, with a choice of French or English Randing and opportunities to explore variations of each technique.
 
As the basket develops, we’ll look at how construction and shaping affect the finished design, including how to monitor and measure the basket so that it is ready for the asymmetric border.
 
Day Three – Finishing the basket and adding the handle
On the final day, you’ll complete the sides of your basket before adding a top band of waling. You’ll then learn how to weave the asymmetric border,.
 
The final stage will be to attach the wooden handle, completing your large asymmetric basket ready to take home.
 
What you need to bring
Please bring a packed lunch. Please wear warm clothes you don't mind getting messy, and bring extra layers (we will be working in a large open space).
 
What's included
Materials and use of tools. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available throughout the day.
 
Cancellation
​​Within 14 days of booking: a full refund.
 
After 14 days of placing a booking: a refund will only be issued if we can rebook your place, in which case you’ll receive a full refund (minus a £20 administration fee).
​
Bookings cannot be transferred. We will make reasonable efforts to rebook cancelled places but cannot guarantee this.
 
Accessibility:
Willow weaving is physically active in all areas. It can particularly hard on the hands, so is unsuitable for those who suffer from arthritis or other conditions that affect the hands. Courses will involve working at many levels, including bending down to the floor, working on laps or standing, and working seated at tables. If you have any physical difficulties in any of these areas, we advise you to contact us before booking.
 
By purchasing a place(s) on our course you are agreeing to our full Terms and Conditions (link below).