Ref: D1D33909
This course will focus on the technique of making cordage and plaiting materials into long elements. We will be working with everyday materials, so that the processes are accessible to all, including those without readily available plant material. The course makes a connection with both basketry and textiles.
Learn how to make a simple two-ply cordage, then move on to additional plies. Have a try working with a clockwise and anticlockwise twist to the cord, creating a Z and S ply. You will be encouraged to work with a range of materials; different fabrics, paper, plastic bags, paper towel, threads. The focus will be on making long regular elements. We will learn some simple flat and three-dimensional plaits, which could be worked with cords made earlier or other materials ready for repurposing.
The course will offer a ‘sketch box’ of ideas for cordage and long plaits/braids. The expectation is that you will have a selection of samples at the end of the course and lots of ideas. Working with a diverse set of materials will introduce texture and colour to the samples. This course would work well as a stand-alone course or with the following course Twined Basketry on a Large Scale (21 March 2025), where cordage could be incorporated in the basket.
Mary will demonstrate techniques, provide visual notes and offer individual support to enable you create your own samples. A suitable day for students with no experience of cordage making or plaiting. Please note, the work can be tiring on the hands and wrists, please consider this before booking.
On this course the tutor will supply most of the materials including different fabrics, paper, plastic bags, paper towel, threads, needles and instruction sheets. All necessary equipment will be provided for use on the course.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Daily Timetable
Course teaching 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)
Morning teaching 11am-1pm
Lunch break between 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes 5.15pm
Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.
Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.
If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.
Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.
Please refer to our terms & conditions below.
The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.
Mary Crabb is an award-winning contemporary basketmaker. Having originally worked in willow, Mary now works with fine flexible materials, both natural and man-made, to create small, detailed and decorative woven forms exploring the connection between basketry and textiles.
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