21st August to 18th September 2026.
Newport on Tay, Fife.
Learn to create useful and beautiful willow baskets using traditional weaving techniques. Tutors Donald and Karen Spy, of Silverhare Baskets, will guide the class through the process of willow weaving using a selection of Fife and Somerset willows.
During this five week course, you will be taught all the basic skills needed to make simple round baskets using traditional ’stake and strand’ techniques. Each class will focus on a particular technique with time for practice and questions.
This class is limited to a maximum of 8 students and, while taking into account the individual student’s abilities, will cover techniques such as:
- Bases & design considerations/anatomy of a basket. Round bases, tying in the slath, pairing weave, joining weavers, tension, and shaping.
- Upset & waling.
- Types of waling, 3 & 4 rod, pull down, chasing. Starting the upset, controlling uprights.
- Randing & side weaves Choice of willow, randing styles, French & English, controlling shape.
- Borders. Types of borders, track and rod borders, choosing the right border for your basket.
- Handles & catch-up Handle types, inset, bow, wrapped, solid. Recap on basket design decisions and choice of materials.
Fridays, 12.30-4.30pm, £355. For more information and to book visit Forgan Arts Centre.
