Willow Berry Basket Workshop

Join us in our sunny Derbyshire studio (or garden!) for this rewarding one-day willow workshop. Create your own little berry basket with a simple pegged handle. This rewarding project makes a great introduction to basketry.Expert Rachel Evans will guide you through the process step by step. Start by constructing a round base, then add 'stakes' and work up the sides using a weave called 'waling'. Finish the top with a simple woven border. Finally, fit a plain handle and peg it in place. We will use colourful, home-grown willow from Rachel's own willow bed and some Somerset willow.The result is a joyful little basket you will keep picking up and using... Perfect for gathering nuts and berries, collecting eggs, or holding spoons in the kitchen.Complete beginners and those with experience are welcome. Class sizes are kept small, and you will be guided step by step as your basket takes shape. This workshop makes a popular gift.The class may take place indoors or out, depending on the weather. The studio is light and airy, and the garden backs onto fields; both are lovely places to work. Set in the beautiful Derbyshire Dales on the edge of the Peak District, Zantium Studios offers the perfect place to relax and learn new skills.Delicious picnic-style lunches are included with a choice of sandwiches and snacks, plus Alison’s legendary homemade cakes.We offer a range of willow classes here at Zantium Studios in Derbyshire, including Basket Weaving, Willow Sculpture, and Willow Garden Panels. Customers often return time and again to perfect their skills or try a different heritage craft. They always leave with new techniques, creative ideas, and their own handmade items to enhance home or garden.

• Professional, friendly tuition
• Delicious lunches & refreshments
• Instruction on weaving techniques
• Advice on growing & sourcing willow
• Practical skills to continue at home
• Your own handcrafted willow basket to cherish

Tools & equipment are provided.Please note: an additional materials fee applies (payable to the tutor at the end). The price is typically £20 per person for the willow used in this workshop.A tasty light lunch is included in the course fee. Please let us know of any special dietary requirements. Tea, coffee, and biscuits are available all day to help yourself, and there will be homemade cake mid-afternoon.Free parking on site.Accommodation is available via Zantium Studios at an extra charge:

• 'Godfrey Hole Cottage' - On-site. 2 bedrooms. Sleeps 3
• 'The Counting House' - Georgian townhouse in Wirksworth, 1 mile away. 1 bedroom. Sleeps 2

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