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I have been making willow baskets for over 30 years, and working with cane even longer. I have taught basketmaking for at least 25 years, covering most of the techniques of willow basketry. Repairing and replicating old baskets, including WW1 biplane seats, is an important part of my work, introducing me to new challenges and techniques. I work with a wide variety of materials, including willow and other barks, rush, straw, splint wood and roots, and mix them in my baskets. I use natural dyes in some of my work. Although my work starts from traditional functional pieces, I will use the techniques at my disposal to create unusual and sometimes non-functional work.
I grow willow on two sites, one near to Inverness and the other on the West Coast.I have a variety of willows, mostly S. purpurea varieties and sell, depending upon availability, from 3 foot length upwards.
I teach both one-day and two-day classes, the former concentrating of simple trugs, platters and bird-feeders. Two day courses are a comprehensive introduction to basketmaking with willow or with bark, and students will learn all they need to know in order to develop their skills. I will help makers with some experience expand their repertoire of techniques and to solve problems that they may be experiencing.
I will teach up to 8 students, provide all necessary materials and specialist tools, and am happy teaching classes with both beginners and more experienced makers. I teach mainly in Aberdeenshire and the Highlands, but am prepared to travel further afield.
To enquire about courses, please contact me.