Willow Basket Weaving Workshops

Willow Basket Weaving Workshops on the Isle of Man

Willow basket weaving workshops are now available through Lovely Greens on the Isle of Man. Courses run in the winter from November to January.

If there’s one thing that I’ve learned in offering soapmaking workshops, it’s that people want to learn how to make things. Crafts, products, and useful things our grandparents and great-grandparents used to make. So many skills and family knowledge have fallen out of practice, so it’s my pleasure to begin coordinating ‘Making’ workshops here on the Isle of Man. That’s why I’ve partnered with John Dog Callister to present the first Willow Basket Weaving Workshop.

An Afternoon of Willow Weaving

The willow basket weaving workshop took place in Laxey over four hours. During that time, we learned to use fresh willow to weave a small basket for the home or garden. We started by building the base, then created vertical supports and wove the sides. The last step for most was finishing the top with a simple woven edge. Most people decided not to add a handle, but you could if you had time. A handle makes the basket a great tool to take with you while out foraging or in the garden.

John Dog has also shared a simple willow basket tutorial on YouTube.

Future Workshops

The day was so popular that I’ve decided to organise more! Though the willow season is coming to a close, there are many traditional crafts and projects in 2018. To hear about the next ones, sign up for the newsletter.

If you’re interested in taking a willow weaving workshop, don’t panic. They’ll be back once the willow has died down for the season again. Keep an eye out for workshops beginning in November 2018.

All the best ~ Tanya from Lovely Greens