Basketry

I make and teach others to make baskets made of plants including willow, rush, bark, ivy and bramble. My making is guided by the plants; each new making is a conversation with plant materials and further builds my relationship and understanding of the character of each plant fiber. 

Craft is slow and that is part of its medicine. Equally, foraging and getting to know plants requires that we slow down to their pace and notice where they are in their lifecycle. Making is an opportunity to slow down, get out of the mind and into the body and to connect with the plants. 

Foraging and working with natural materials is a link with the heritage of this land  and how we have used our hands creatively through time. Our ancestors have been making baskets for thousands of years; they are nature's original container. The style and material of baskets were completely rooted in place, made from materials that grew locally. Learning these ancient skills is an opportunity to gain lifelong practical skills and to keep them alive. 

I offer courses in hedgerow basketry, foraging for weaving materials as well as traditional basketry. 

Would you like to learn this ancient skill? 

  • "Wow, what a brilliant and therapeutic day. All the help we needed and a very warm, friendly instructor. Amy is an absolute delight to spend the day with"

    Foraging Baskets workshop

  • "This was one of the most fun experiences I've ever had! I hope to come again. Thanks!"

    Round Baskets workshop

  • "There was such a lovely supportive atmosphere! Amy is a wonderful teacher and obviously extremely knowledgeable!"

  • “The workshop was absorbing, creative, educational, rewarding, making a beautiful basket with wonderful co-students and an ace teacher"

    Rush Foraging bag workshop