The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Food & crafts => Crafts => Topic started by: egglady on July 06, 2011, 10:38:49 am

Title: Basket weaving
Post by: egglady on July 06, 2011, 10:38:49 am: anyone near me that can teach me how to make baskets please?
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: WaltDisneyWorld on July 06, 2011, 11:46:07 am: Are you anywhere near Diss, Norfolk? I too am keen to try basket weaving and have put my name down for a 6 - 8 week course and as yet I haven't been given a start date as we need one more person to sign up :)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 06, 2011, 11:58:02 am: I'm near Dunfermline and would like to learn too! ;D
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: egglady on July 06, 2011, 12:36:57 pm: Quote from: WaltDisneyWorld on July 06, 2011, 11:46:07 am
Are you anywhere near Diss, Norfolk? I too am keen to try basket weaving and have put my name down for a 6 - 8 week course and as yet I haven't been given a start date as we need one more person to sign up :)
i wish i was WDW, but sadly no, i am in Fife (Scotland).

and Dizzycow, have one possible source for a course - will let you know if anything comes of it....but still looking if anyone else knows please
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Fleecewife on July 06, 2011, 02:11:50 pm: I went on a wonderful one weeks basketmaking course with the Field Studies Council, up near somewhere like Dunkeld but my brain is on strike today so can't remember exactly where. Google FSC for details although they fill up fast. Once I remember I will come back ::) There is also someone in Haddington who allegedly teaches basketmaking but neither my DiL nor I could get a reply.
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 06, 2011, 03:09:34 pm: http://www.westmossside.com (http://www.westmossside.com) sounds great. http://www.basketassoc.org/register/maker.php?maker=126 (http://www.basketassoc.org/register/maker.php?maker=126) might come to us if we got a group together?
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: egglady on July 06, 2011, 03:30:29 pm: Quote from: Dizzycow on July 06, 2011, 03:09:34 pm
http://www.westmossside.com (http://www.westmossside.com) sounds great. http://www.basketassoc.org/register/maker.php?maker=126 (http://www.basketassoc.org/register/maker.php?maker=126) might come to us if we got a group together?

deff up for that, we have a residential caravan so if it's a 2 day-er we can provide accomodation.

who else fancies it?
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: ellied on July 06, 2011, 05:26:31 pm: I think they used to teach willow basket work at Monimail Tower which is only a few miles from you, tho I'm not in direct contact with them.

Falkland Stewardship lot at the stables on Falkland Estate are also advertising a course on wood and something where you all do basket weaving and then you add one of three other wood crafts over 2-3 days - sorry I didn't pick up a leaflet and can't remember details but it's probably online somewhere if you google it..

A friend learned somewhere near Callander or Balqhidder last year but she's moved away now and I don't remember where - the Moss-side yurt place might have been it..

I'd be interested if there is a TAS gathering and it isn't too far or too dear ;)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 06, 2011, 07:09:38 pm: Could have been that Buddhist place near Balquidder.
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Fleecewife on July 06, 2011, 07:51:50 pm: OH has remembered where I went :) It was Kindrogan Field Centre at Enochdhu, between Pitlochrie and Blairgowrie, Field Studies Council. The course was an intense 5 days but I learned SO much - and made a lovely basket which I now use for my spinning stuff.
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: egglady on July 06, 2011, 08:43:08 pm: Quote from: Fleecewife on July 06, 2011, 07:51:50 pm
OH has remembered where I went :) It was Kindrogan Field Centre at Enochdhu, between Pitlochrie and Blairgowrie, Field Studies Council. The course was an intense 5 days but I learned SO much - and made a lovely basket which I now use for my spinning stuff.

flippin heck! dunno that i could commit to 5 days...seems like an awful long time......or is that just me? going to investigate nonetheless....
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Fleecewife on July 06, 2011, 11:33:47 pm: Quote from: egglady on July 06, 2011, 08:43:08 pm
Quote from: Fleecewife on July 06, 2011, 07:51:50 pm
OH has remembered where I went :) It was Kindrogan Field Centre at Enochdhu, between Pitlochrie and Blairgowrie, Field Studies Council. The course was an intense 5 days but I learned SO much - and made a lovely basket which I now use for my spinning stuff.

flippin heck! dunno that i could commit to 5 days...seems like an awful long time......or is that just me? going to investigate nonetheless....

No it's not just you - it is an awful long time ;D ;D But it makes the difference between being just about able to have a go at something or really knowing what you are doing. I have also been on a 5 day loom weaving course down in Cumbria, and a 3 day canoeing course (that one with OH). Beats lying on a boring beach somewhere getting sunburn :D :D
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 07, 2011, 08:33:04 am: Very adventurous! I've got past the lying on a beach stage too, would much rather be doing something active.

Back to basket weaving - I have three smallies so wouldn't be able to do anything that involves staying away overnight. I don't mind if it's five days, though, but it would need to be reasonably local for me.
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Fleecewife on July 07, 2011, 09:24:49 am: Another option is to get a good book and look at Utube clips - must be some out there. There is an inspirational book called something like 'hedgerow baskets' which shows you how to make a wide variety of baskets using material you can grow yourself or find - they look wonderful. You don't learn the tricks of the trade that you would on a course, but if you can't get away it's worth a thought.
I'm beginning to wonder if my basket course really was 5 days or if it was a long weekend but seemed like 5 days ;D ;D ;D It was a couple of years ago now ::) ???
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 07, 2011, 09:40:35 am: That's a good plan! I'm not good at finishing what I start, though! I'm happy to hold something here if we can get someone to teach and provide materials. Shall I ask around? How exciting!
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 07, 2011, 09:43:35 am: Just emailed Anna from Edinburgh!
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Sandy on July 09, 2011, 10:52:36 am: Last time I did basket weaving I was 17, in hospital with the results of flu and made loads of trays and did not finnish my waste paper basket!!! I have a job finnishing what I start too ::)
I broke all my nails and when I went under my bed to collect all the dropped bits, a very young attractive Priest came in to visit me and my temp went sky high again!!!!!

Sounds fantastic as I saw some one on TV weaving some wonderful baskets!!!!!!
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: melodrama on July 10, 2011, 08:54:41 pm: Basketmaking for beginners/improvers - Falkland, Fife

Thursday 21st and Friday 22nd October, 9am to 5pm

A two day course with tutor Jane Wilkinson. Beginners will make a circular basket while improvers can try oval work. Improvers are encouraged to contact Jane in advance to discuss your interests. Jane can be contacted via Falkland Centre for Stewardship's office.

Cost £80/£60 and includes materials, refreshments and a lunch.

Numbers are limited and places must be booked by Wednesday 13th October.

Courses suitable for adults. For bookings and more information:
Falkland Centre for Stewardship
The Stables
Falkland Estate
Falkland
Fife
KY15 7AF
T: 01337 858838
E: [email protected]
www.centreforstewardship.org.uk (http://www.centreforstewardship.org.uk)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Fleecewife on July 10, 2011, 10:05:08 pm: It is Jane who did the course I went on at Kindrogan. She is very good and makes the whole thing so easy and obvious. Go if you can 8) She had some of my Hebridean fleece to see if she could incorporate it into a basket - I would love to know if she managed.
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 11, 2011, 10:40:00 am: That sounds great, if a bit expensive.
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Womble on July 11, 2011, 12:29:18 pm: I'd love to spend a winter weekend learning something like that, so do please keep me posted!

It would be a good one to do in conjunction with CSSA (I know most of the folks from there are also on here, but perhaps not all?).
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Sandy on July 11, 2011, 12:32:59 pm: Thats a good idea womble, I would hope to go as it is a bit too much for me as well!!
wonder if a Dog basket for 4 Labs is a bit ambitious ???
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 11, 2011, 03:04:54 pm: One person I emailed said she's trying to cut down on running courses so no, I emailed another lot, and the one Womble suggested http://www.all-about-willow.co.uk/, (http://www.all-about-willow.co.uk/,) will let you know. I'm happy to hold something here if that suits everyone and we can find someone to teach us.
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 11, 2011, 04:36:24 pm: I've had a reply from a basket teaching lady called Catherine Davies who will come out and do a day or whatever. She's going to ring with dates, options and prices. Any preferences for when, where, and what she teaches? :)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: melodrama on July 11, 2011, 05:06:27 pm: That sounds fab - hope I can tag along :-*
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Womble on July 12, 2011, 12:44:51 pm: When: How about an autumn/winter weekend, or two concurrent saturdays say? We're all likely to be a bit less busy then, and it seems like the perfect activity for when the nights are fair drawing in, etc!!

Where: Your place would be unbeatable if you don't mind, otherwise I'm sure a village hall or similar could be arranged.

What: Depends what can be taught in what timescale. I'd settle for a wonky egg collection basket, but what I REALLY want is a new log basket.

(http://www.greatbritishbaskets.co.uk/webupload/GBBASKET/CUSTOM/BASKETS-2009/LARGE/oval-log-basket-2-lg.jpg)

Well, I can dream, can't I? ;D
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: ellied on July 12, 2011, 01:19:26 pm: Where: For me fuel costs mean I would only go as far as Dunfermline for a one day and my preference would be as local to me as possible eg at Egglady's place I'd do 2 days! The 2 day course at Falkland, or the 3 day woodfest event even, tho more expensive than I would probably want, means I'd need a real bargain to go further afield if I do find money to go.. I'd enjoy it but it isn't a priority so has to be easy and/or cheap to make it one!

What: I understand round baskets are easier than oval ones but whatever is easiest for a complete beginner but produces something I can actually use rather than purely decorative (or not!) - log basket, egg basket, wool basket, laundry basket - any size would be useful if I could replicate it at need but I don't need more ornaments.. :)

When: if it's a full day then I want to set off and get home in daylight so I can see animals not work entirely in the dark for 2 days while rushing about the country in between ::) So for me no later than autumn. Dead of winter is hard enough without a day or two driving somewhere and being away all day, particularly if things go wrong at home or the weather is bad..
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 12, 2011, 01:54:37 pm: The lady who contacted me is going to ring me, I'll try to get a variety of dates, prices, options for what she teaches and then we can vote on it! Very happy to have it here, also have a couple of local friends who would jump at the chance. The more people (within reason, of course) we have the lower the cost p/p will be. I'd quite like to do 2 days too, I'm sure even if she agrees to a 2 day course people could just do a smaller one day project. Will let you know when I hear from her. :)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: egglady on July 12, 2011, 03:18:30 pm: it may well be that we end up with 2 dates and venues, as the reason i asked the question in the first place was becuase i didnt want to travel miles for a course (time and cost of fuel), so share ellie's comments and we have lots of animals too so dont like to take advantange of friends and neighbours to look after them - espeically when the weather starts to turn.

i doubt if I'd travel to Dunfermline for 2 days Dizzycow, but will wait and see what your lady comes back with....and of course the option of accomodation in our residential caravan is still there

egglady :(
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 12, 2011, 03:21:29 pm: Two dates and two venues would suit twice the number of people! ;)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 13, 2011, 10:57:22 am: I spoke this morning to Catherine from All About Willow.

She will do a two day course (she doesn't encourage one day courses because she ends up finishing everyone's baskets off for them as they run out of time.) either mid week or weekend for eight people. She prefers no more than eight so that she can do plenty of one to one help. The course is to make a small basket, during the making all techniques required for bigger projects will be covered. Included in the day will also be another base so that we can have a go by ourselves afterwards. Lunch will be provided, all materials etc.

The two days cost £80 p/p providing we get 8 places filled.

She's available 10th + 11th Sept, 24th +25th Sept, or any mid-week dates in Sept.

We can do the course anywhere, I'm happy to have it here although of course that doesn't suit everyone!

I'd quite like to get something booked here, and can probably fill it quite easily with people from this area if it doesn't suit, but would be fun to have a course populated by TAS people! ;D
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: egglady on July 13, 2011, 11:26:15 am: Dizzycow, too far for me at that price but can you pm me her details please and i'll contact her separately about running one in the NE of Fife area.

many thanks and enjoy your course - glad i started the thread now :)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: melodrama on July 13, 2011, 12:55:30 pm: Where in Fife are you? I would like to do the course if thats ok x
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 13, 2011, 01:13:41 pm: Hooray!
Just outside Crossford, near Dunfermline.
:bouquet:
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: ellied on July 13, 2011, 07:46:57 pm: If £80 for a 2 day is standard price then the one in Falkland in October looks more attractive and if I can get the £60 rate on low income (rather than it being just for folk on benefits) I'd be even more interested, so I'll not sign up for Dunfermline but thanks for taking the trouble and I hope it fills up with local folk and other TAS-ers :)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on July 13, 2011, 08:13:10 pm: Quite right too, that's what I would do if I lived close by. I'm going to hold one here, though, so anyone interested please let me know which weekend suits! :)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: ellied on August 06, 2011, 06:56:09 pm: Melodrama, I can't find this course on the Stewardship website and emailed them on Thursday to ask but no reply as yet.. can you tell me where you saw the ad please as I'd like to have a go at this.. Thanks :)

Quote from: melodrama on July 10, 2011, 08:54:41 pm
Basketmaking for beginners/improvers - Falkland, Fife

Thursday 21st and Friday 22nd October, 9am to 5pm

A two day course with tutor Jane Wilkinson. Beginners will make a circular basket while improvers can try oval work. Improvers are encouraged to contact Jane in advance to discuss your interests. Jane can be contacted via Falkland Centre for Stewardship's office.

Cost £80/£60 and includes materials, refreshments and a lunch.

Numbers are limited and places must be booked by Wednesday 13th October.

Courses suitable for adults. For bookings and more information:
Falkland Centre for Stewardship
The Stables
Falkland Estate
Falkland
Fife
KY15 7AF
T: 01337 858838
E: [email protected]
www.centreforstewardship.org.uk (http://www.centreforstewardship.org.uk)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: melodrama on August 07, 2011, 09:13:13 pm: It was just on their website ellied. They have a lot of different courses on throughout the year. Unfortunately, I've been too busy to even get to think about getting to one - maybe soon ;D
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: doganjo on August 07, 2011, 11:00:02 pm: I can't find it either. Perhaps they've cancelled it.
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on August 08, 2011, 08:35:35 am: I've got Catherine Davies from All About Willow coming here (nr Dunfermline) on 13th & 14th Oct. £80 inc materials & lunch if anyone is interested?
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: melodrama on August 08, 2011, 11:40:33 am: Thanks Dizzycow but I think I'll continue to look for somethign a little closer to home. Thanks anyway x
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Womble on August 12, 2011, 07:48:29 am: Hi DC, Diary now set for October, and unfortunately I can't manage those dates. Have fun with the rest of the basket cases though!!
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: ellied on August 30, 2011, 04:09:31 pm: Just to say the Falkland Centre for Stewardship is re-running a "hedgerow basket" day on 18 November 10-4 for £15 - I'm booked in :) The 2 day willow course was an old ad and no longer available but I reckon this will be fun as you go a walk on the Falkland Estate to gather your materials and then make them into something so it should be pretty organic and creative (or in my case chaotic perhaps ;) ) and if I get on with the trainer and the principles of basketmaking then I might then invest in a 2 day formal training another time.

I'm also going to a half day of apple pressing there on 15 November.. I've only got cookers here but for £7.50 it'll be another interesting morning and local enough to get coffee at Pillars after ;)
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: Dizzycow on August 30, 2011, 05:30:35 pm: Sounds fab. Hope I'm not working!
Title: Re: Basket weaving
Post by: ellied on August 31, 2011, 08:03:31 am: 4th and 18th November - Hedgerow basketry with Jane Wilkinson, 10am to 4pm. PLEASE NOTE 4TH NOVEMBER IS FULLY BOOKED
Walk on the beautiful Falkland Estate and collect hedgerow material, return to the Stables Workshop to weave a hedgerow tension tray. Suitable for adults. Booking essential. Participants should bring a packed lunch with them but tea, coffee and cake will be available for donation as well. Cost £15 and includes all materials.

http://www.centreforstewardship.org.uk/events.htm (http://www.centreforstewardship.org.uk/events.htm)