This is a fun activity in Welshpool, Shrewsbury
Set in the beautiful hills of mid-Wales, this course will take you through all the processes in making a practical and ornamental willow basket.
The tuition starts at 10am, running until 4pm on both days, with breaks whenever I can prise people away! Willow weaving can be addictive... There are several local B&B places to stay, and on-site campervan parking is available at a small additional cost for those travelling some distance.
We first discuss how to grow and prepare the willow; I grow a large selection of willow, including some with beautiful colours. We will also look at other plant materials that can be used in weaving. Large willow items require good finger strength; the inclusion of some softer materials ensures that these skills are accessible to all.
Learning to make a good base for a basket is crucial, so we will make several bases before starting to add the other elements. You will learn three or more different weave patterns as you make your unique basket and experiment with three different handle techniques.
The courses have a maximum of six people, giving you personal tuition and attention, and you work at your own pace.
The final baskets will all be slightly different and all your own work, something to feel very proud of for many years!