Rushwork: make a small bread or fruit basket with John Page

Ref: D1D36328

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About this course

On this course, you will learn to weave a small basket using common bulrush and traditional basket-making techniques, creating a practical and beautiful piece perfect for holding bread or fruit.

Course Description

In this workshop, you will be introduced to the versatile material of rush and explore its many possibilities in basket weaving. Using common bulrush, you will learn traditional techniques to create a small basket suitable for bread or fruit.

You will begin with an overview of rush, its uses and how to prepare it for weaving. Then, you will learn traditional basket weaving techniques, including checkweave, pairing and twining. These time-honoured methods will help you build a sturdy and functional small basket. The workshop will also cover how to finish your piece with a simple threadaway border, giving your basket a professional, polished edge.

For those with previous weaving experience, alternative techniques will be offered where possible, allowing you to further develop your skills and create a more intricate design.

By the end of the course, you will have a beautiful, handmade rush basket perfect for use at home, and the knowledge to continue experimenting with rush work in your own creative projects.

Course Materials

Included

On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials, including the bulrush and tools.

What students need to bring

  • Medium-sized scissors if you have some
  • Apron

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Timetable

Daily Timetable

Course teaching 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching 11am-1pm
Lunch break between 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes 5.15pm  
 

General Information

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions

Tutors

John Page

John specialises in rushwork and holds a Diploma from the City & Guilds in Creative Basketry. He runs the two-year basketry course at the City Lit, London. He is a Yeoman of the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers and has contributed a chapter in Rush, published by the Basketmakers’ Association.

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Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.

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