Endangered Basketry: Crafting a Traditional Frame Basket

Rooted in community tradition, the craft of traditional frame basketry begins with the careful preparation of skeined willow and hazel to create strong yet elegant forms. From the Cyntel of Wales to the Scáthóg of Ireland, these lightweight yet sturdy baskets were once indispensable in daily life—crafted with skill, intuition, and a deep connection to the land.

Under expert guidance, you will:

• Work with hazel and skeined willow, mastering the techniques of riving, cleaving, and delicate willow preparation.
• Shape and weave a heritage-style basket, using fine, ribbon-like willow strands to create a strong yet elegant form.
• Discover the history and significance of these traditional designs, found across the Celtic world under many names.
• Take home your own handcrafted basket, a beautiful and functional piece of living heritage.

This is a deeply absorbing and tactile craft, one that rewards patience and rhythm as you bend, weave, and shape each strand into place. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to engage, work with your hands, and enjoy the meditative process of slow making.

All tools and materials are provided, with a picnic lunch and refreshments served in the tranquil surroundings of The Newt. This is a full day workshop running from 9:30-4:30pm