Willow Basket Making For Beginners

Beginners Willow Basket Making Workshop

Join us for a relaxing and rewarding day learning the traditional craft of willow basketry with experienced tutor Ruth Thompson of Sylvan Skills. This hands-on workshop is perfect for beginners and those looking to build confidence in working with natural materials.

Over the course of the day, you will create your own shallow willow basket to take home. To ensure everyone completes a piece, prepared bases will be provided, allowing you to focus on the weaving techniques that bring your basket to life. If time allows, Ruth will also demonstrate how to make a base for future projects.

This is a sociable and immersive workshop set in our beautiful barn, with plenty of guidance throughout the day.

Date: Saturday 11th July

Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm

Group size: Maximum 10 participants

Price: £105 per person (includes all materials, lunch, and refreshments)

What you’ll learn:

• How to work with soaked willow

• Traditional basket weaving techniques

• How to shape and finish a shallow basket

• Tips for continuing basketry at home

Please note:

• Suitable for beginners (18+)

• This is a physical workshop requiring standing, bending, and hand strength

• All materials are provided

What to bring:

• Secateurs (if you have them)

• Glasses (if needed for close work)

• Notebook and pen (optional)

• Old clothes and sturdy, closed-toe shoes

• Gloves

• Something to tie long hair back