Ref: SSW40184
Aims: to gain competence in at least one weaving technique; to explore the material of willow; to create a functional basket to take home. Objectives: to observe and practice the following techniques: pairing; staking up; waling; randing Outcomes: increased confidence using the material; a functional handmade basket; an enjoyable experience of working with manual skills.
The first day will be spent getting to know the material and tools, selecting materials for the base, using a bodkin and a pairing weave to ‘tie in the slath’. We will have time to make at least two bases, consolidating our skills and improving technique as we go. In the afternoon we will select the most successful base (bearing in mind that a basket is only ever as good as the base) and take time to carefully select materials for the stakes (uprights). We will then ‘slype’ the ‘butt ends’ of the stake rods and insert them using a bodkin into the base, ‘pricking up’ with a knife. We will then secure a hoop over the stakes ready for weaving on day-two.
The second day will commence once more by selecting material appropriate for weaving the sides. The first technique covered will be a three-rod wale to form the ‘upset’ and set the stakes in regular intervals for the next stage of weaving. After a few rows of waling, we select best material for the ‘randing’ weave. We will then use English randing for the sides, tapping down the weaving with a ‘rapping iron’, and ending with a top wale. Finally, after lunch we will complete our baskets with a ‘5 behind 2’ rod border, something that needs time, concentration, and a fair bit of patience! The work is completed by ‘picking off’ (trimming the ends) with secateurs, and an appraisal at the end.
On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials (willow)
On this course the College will supply some of the tools including knives, bodkins, rapping irons and secateurs
Knee pads/kneeling mats if desired (some floor work involved)
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Saturday
Student registration: 9.45am
Course teaching: 10am-5pm
Morning session: 10am-1pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch included)
Afternoon session: 2pm-5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Sunday
Course teaching: 9am-4pm
Morning session: 9am-1pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch included)
Teaching finishes: 4pm
Emma has been making baskets for over a decade, having first trained as a Fine Artist. She has worked under the watchful eyes of master basketmakers Mary Butcher and Adrian Charlton among others and has received funding from the Heritage Crafts Association. She focuses on traditional English techniques while considering contemporary aesthetics.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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.
