Course Description

The course assumes the student is a beginner and starts With a Health and Safety briefing and an explanation of the tools and how to use them. The rim ring is fitted inside the handle ring at right angles to it and then the student is shown how tie the rings at both ends with willow. Weaving from both ends to the middle of the basket is commenced with 2 weavers used at each end before introducing the first 4 ribs. 2 more weavers are added at each end before the next 4 ribs are fitted. Followed by 2 more at each end before packing is demonstrated. Pre-bending the willow is demonstrated before the middle of the basket is reached. At some point the art of ring making is demonstrated and the students given the opportunity to make a set of rings for their next basket.

Tools Provided

• Bypass Secateurs
• Bodkin, Stretchy Tying Tube
• Round piece of wood for pre-bending willow

Materials Provided

• 2 pre-made rings
• Pre-soaked Brown Willow consisting of 60 weavers (3 and 4ft lengths of different bark colour varieties)
• 8 pieces of 6-7ft stiff willow for Ribs
• 8 pieces of 6-7ft thicker stiff willow for making a set of rings for the next basket

Materials Cost to Students

The tutor will supply all tools and materials at a cost of £10.