Courses and Events
Willow courses
As well as my own courses at my workshop in Froghall Wharf or at Foxt Village Hall, I teach at The Gardeners Bothy, Staunton Harold, Greenwood Days and Zantium Arts. Courses are marked as suitable for beginners or intermediates, materials, drinks and biscuits are included. Booking is essential as places are limited to 8 to ensure sufficient tuition time. Vouchers can be used on the courses that are starred.
Please bear in mind that basketmaking is very hard on the hands. If you suffer from hand, wrist, finger or shoulder problems it may not be the course for you.
More new courses for 2024 will be added through the year. To book onto courses, see the details below (read carefully as some are not suitable for beginners) then please head to my shop, select the right course and book on and pay. If its not on the shop yet, just ping me an email wheatcroftwillow@googlemail.com
Voucher holders please email me and I will book you on.
See below for cancellation policy.
Progressive teaching programme
If you want to take your basketmaking further then more structured learning can be arranged with me in my workshop. We can cover materials preparation and selection and well as the techniques to make whatever baskets style you wish, working progressively towards set goals and building on your skills.
One to one tuition £200 per day in my workshop plus materials
up to 3 people in the workshop. £100 per person plus materials
Contact me to book or see below
Willow basket courses 2024.
All courses are at Foxt Village Hall, ST10 2HN or in my workshop at Froghall Wharf unless otherwise stated
Progressive makers in my workshop. Frame baskets. Friday 12th and Saturday 13th April – 9.30-5 ish £200
Using pre-made hoops you can make a round or oval frame basket. We will learn how to split and dress ribs using a knife and attach them to a hoop to create a curved, shallow and very strong frame basket, useful for carrying garden or home items. For basketmakers with a little experience and confident with a knife.
Willow frame platter 27th April. Unittwelve, Hixon, Staffs
This workshop will be using Staffordshire and Somerset willow to create a willow frame to make a leaf shaped tray/platter for the table. We will fit together two forked branches of willow or hazel from the Churnet Valley, to make a frame. Then we will use Rachels home grown colourful willows to weave a randing pattern and add ribs and shape a shallow dish platter. The workshop is 10 - 4pm £80
To book use this link https://unittwelve.bigcartel.com/product/wheatcroftwillow-willow-frame-platter-workshop
Oval shaped backpack – Friday 26th July and Saturday 27th July 9.30 – 5 ish. £200
This two day course will guide you through making an oval shaped willow backpack for carrying around your foraging finds or for picnics. We will make a base and stake up, using different weaves and colours to add texture to the sides of the basket. Price includes canvas straps. English leather straps can be added at an additional cost. Suitable for any level.
Berry basket course – Saturday 17th August. 9.30 -5. £90
Make a sweet little berry basket with a plain handle to collect all your foraging spoils, nuts, berries or for holding spoons or eggs in the kitchen. A useful little basket you will keep picking up and using. We will make round bases, add stakes and using a weave called waling, work up the sides, weave a simple border then add a plain handle and peg in place. Suitable for beginners and intermediates.
ttps://www.wheatcroftwillow.co.uk/product-page/course-berry-basket-sat-august-17th
Course cancellation policy
If you are unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible.
If you cancel more than 5 weeks before the course, your fee can be refunded minus a £25 cancellation fee.
Less than 5 weeks and I cannot offer a refund, although if I can fill your place, you may transfer your course to another course of similar value later in the year.
Less than 7 days and unfortunately I cannot offer refunds.
Course fees are non-refundable. No refunds can be made to those who fail to attend a course in full or in part.
You may send someone in your place, in which case we will need their contact details in advance
