Basketmaking

Basketmaking is one of the oldest crafts, pre-dating pottery and cloth weaving and yet leading to the invention of both.

Spend a day with expert Ray Lister who has been making and teaching about English baskets for over 20 years, using colourful, locally-grown organic willow.

Each student will craft his or her own frame basket. This style of basket uses the oldest of techniques, and is a very achievable project, even with no previous experience necessary. This type of basket also lends itself well to the use of wild, garden or hedgerow materials.

The course takes place at Ecclesall Woods Sawmill, Sheffield. Students are asked to arrive at around 9.30am for a prompt 10am start. The course finishes at 5pm.

We recommend you wear work clothes, and bring a pen and notebook. Lunch can be bought in the café on-site, or do bring a packed lunch if you prefer.

Ray Lister has been making and teaching about English baskets for over 20 years.

This course is organised by Low-Impact Living Initiative (LILI), a non-profit organisation whose mission is to help people reduce their impact on the environment, improve their quality of life, gain new skills, live in a healthier and more satisfying way, have fun and save money.

Ecclesall Woods Sawmill is situated in the heart of Ecclesall Woods, the largest ancient woodland in South Yorkshire. It is now owned by Sheffield City Council, and has woodland craft workshops, an art gallery, school visits and educational facilities. There is a wooden shingle-clad building and the most beautiful compost toilet you've ever seen.