In this Beginners Basketmaking Course, led by Jordie Reay, you will make a basic basket about 20cm wide by 12cm tall which is perfect for storing all sorts of things like keys by the door or a potted plant. Once mastered, these key skills open the doorway to a fascinating and creative hobby.
You will also learn a little about the history of baskets and why they were so important in the past before the invention of plastic and also how the willow was prepared to make it pliable before you can use it.
The one-day course includes a lunch break, a tea break with cake, and lots of chatting with like-minded people. Gift Vouchers are available on request.
All materials, tools and safety equipment are included and no prior experience is needed.
Please note: Willow weaving requires manual dexterity so this class may not be suitable for people with hand mobility issues.
Once you have mastered the basics of basketmaking you may participate in an intermediate course which will teach you more advanced techniques such as shape manipulation and creating a handle.
ABOUT JORDIE REAY
From a young age, I’ve been captivated by social history, particularly the rich narratives of ordinary people in the 16th and 18th centuries.
Five years ago, I joined over a hundred people at Kentwell Hall in Suffolk, to live as a Tudor and create an annual immersive living history event. Whilst living there, I was introduced to traditional basketmaking in English willow, just one of the heritage crafts being kept alive by the project.
The process is at once meditative and challenging, and I immediately felt a deep connection to the process and to the centuries of artisans who created the techniques I was learning. These traditional basketmaking skills have developed over centuries and reflect both national and social distinctions.
As my skills have developed I have found immense pleasure in creating baskets, appreciating their sustainability, uniqueness, and the tactile experience they offer. The importance of retaining such artisanal skills has led me to share my passion and I have found joy in teaching and connecting with other makers.
I also have a passion for creating historical clothing, hand-stitching every piece and crafting my own patterns, always using traditional methods and striving for authenticity. My educational background includes studying costume making at Arts University Bournemouth, and I currently volunteer at Kentwell Hall, Athelhampton Manor and Highcliffe Castle, but I am no luddite - I also enjoy creating digital art,both by drawing and graphic design.
Through all these pursuits, I aim to keep history alive and share my love for these crafts with others.
