Ref: D2D36504
Day one begins with a brief introduction to harvesting and preparing bulrushes, learning how to transform these wild plants into pliable materials, perfect for weaving. You will then begin crafting your baskets base, using the classic check weave technique, which provides the solid foundation for your basket. As you progress to the sides, you will explore the paired or twined weaving technique, which allows for open work, giving the basket both structure and visual interest.
On day two, you will complete your basket by adding a sturdy rod border, ensuring a secure finish that frames your work beautifully. You will also have the opportunity to choose between creating a roped or a plaited handle, depending on your personal style.
By the end of this workshop, you will walk away with a fully finished, handcrafted basket, along with the skills to create more intricate and personalised rushwork projects in the future. Whether you are a beginner or someone with prior weaving experience, this course will provide you with the techniques and confidence to create beautiful, sustainable baskets, perfect for everyday use or special occasions.
This hands-on workshop uses traditional techniques, offering you the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, learn a timeless craft and create something both practical and beautiful.
On this course the tutor will provide the rush to make the basket, and he will supply scissors and threading tools for each student to 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: 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.
John specialises in rushwork and holds a Diploma from the City & Guilds in Creative Basketry. He runs the two-year basketry course at the City Lit, London. He is a Yeoman of the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers and has contributed a chapter in Rush, published by the Basketmakers’ Association.
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