Introduction to Basketry - Vessels Old and New - Full Day Course Tenterden
Description
These courses are for absolute beginners and for people who'd like to experiment with different shapes. The materials are all carefully selected for what we’ll make; a traditional dish, showing you quite a structured, methodical way of working, and a contemporary vessel, which gives you an opportunity to create something that is more free flowing and playful. This will give you a good impression of what it can be like, weaving with willow or hedgerow and with different, ancient weaving techniques. Your course is held in a tranquil setting with nature all around us to fully reconnect and rewind. Full-day courses are £110, start at 10:00 and finish around 16:30. There is a maximum of six participants. A minimum of four participants is required to run this course. Should bookings not reach the minimum number this course may be rescheduled and you will be emailed. Please book your course a week-and-a-half before the course date to allow for the preparation to take place. It's a fantastic time to spend with friends, but also really refreshing to share with like-minded people you've not met before. Basket weaving is very therapeutic, as you are using head, heart and hands, bringing body and mind back in sync. Working in a group allows you to share experiences, bounce off ideas, so it's also a great way to build new friendships. Truly refreshing for both mind and spirit. Is this for me? Over the years, people with disabilities, or who were thought to be lesser abled were still able to weave a basket. Not quite sure about your abilities, then just get in touch and I will assess to see whether it's for you. Locations I try to organise the courses in rural locations; on farms for instance. This way, we have the benefits of nature around us to fully reconnect and rewild. Please contact me for a more tailored experience.
What's included in the price?
What can I Expect? - A relaxed time, immersing yourself in being creative with natural materials in a tranquil setting; - A traditional dish and contemporary vessel made out of different varieties of basketry willow; - The step-by-step, easy to follow guidance from start to finish product; - You will learn ancient basketry techniques and explore other projects with the same use of techniques; the morning being a structured experience and the afternoon a playful, free-style one; - Find out about cultivation, preparation of willow and hedgerow materials and care for your item; - Learn how to use tools provided and what to use if you don’t have those tools at home; - Your lovely wreath is made from 100% sustainable materials, the ethical, eco-friendly way; and - All willow, use of tools (if you don't like using your own), teas, coffees and fruit are included. I advise people to bring a packed lunch.
Duration
6½ hours
Cancellation policy
Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts
Maker
Marianne has been a basketmaker since 2006 and teaches the age-old techniques now applied to contemporary baskets She teaches weaving with willow, hedgerow, rattan and rush. The locations are usually on smallholdings and forest school areas in Kent and East Sussex to fully experience the grounding power of nature. Classes are small, giving you all the guidance you need to create your very own design.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Teenagers
- Children
- Hearing impaired
- Vision impaired
- Limited mobility
- Learning difficulties (SEN)
- Corporate days out & team building
- Parking provided
- School holiday workshops & activities
- Engagement, birthdays & anniversaries
- UK Holiday
- Suitable for beginners
- Stag dos
- Overseas Holiday
- Hen dos
FAQs
All materials, use of tools, teas, coffees and sometimes mince pies, nibbles and mulled wine are included in the price.
I do advise people to bring a packed lunch, although at some venues they can provide lunch. Please get in touch, if you'd like to find out more about a certain course and the lunch that can be provided.
Yes, I teach children from the age of 8, usually, but have noticed that home-taught children adapt much more easily to weaving with natural materials then children who have followed the mainstream route. Please get in touch and we can discuss your wishes.
Yes, happy to do this! Let me know in what area you live and whether you have a venue in mind (it's not always easy for me to find a venue that is the right size with kitchenette, toilets and outside space) and I will arrange a course there. It'll take me about 3 months to arrange this and have a fully-booked course, so why not get in touch now and we'll discuss what you have in mind.
I advise people to share a car where they can. However, if it's just you, there should be ample spaces to choose from, should you arrive in time; half an hour before the course start time.
Not all venues have spaces for disabled, but please let me know in advance and I will make sure you will be able to park as close to the front door as possible.
If you wish, you could bring bodkins, secateurs, knife and wrapping tool, but I will provide you with all the tools you need for what you'll be making.
From the age of 8, they should be able to make small projects. From the age of 12, they should be able to weave a basket. However, please get in touch to find out whether your child is ready for it yet.
I intend to add dates once a course is nearly fully booked. Please get in touch, if you have a date in mind that is 3 months in advance, or if you'd like to organise a private course for friends or family.
