About this course

Learn the techniques required to create a willow creel basket to take your basketmaking to the next level.

Course Description

The Creel is a traditional basket which incorporates many techniques. It's the perfect basket to take your basketmaking to the next level.

On this workshop you’ll learn all the techniques required to create a willow creel basket. Some of the many techniques and skills you'll learn making this basket are: lids, hinges, scalloming, frame making, openings, plaiting, end posts, cordage, packing, different weaves and much more. Eddie is a master of these skills and uses them regularly in his own practice as a professional basketmaker.

Eddie finds teaching basketmaking a real pleasure, as it enables him to pass on the knowledge his father gave him.

Course Materials

Included

  • The willow for the basket will be provided, along with the leather strap and attachments.

What students need to bring

  • Tools for willow basketmaking may be borrowed from the tutor, but please bring as many as you have available, if you have them (but do not buy anything especially before you come).
  • A tape measure and ruler
  • Pair of sharp secateurs and a good pen knife
  • Pair of side or wire cutters
  • A rapping iron
  • Basketmaker’s bodkin (can be borrowed from the tutor)
  • Essential – covered footwear must be worn in this workshop.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Timetable

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

General Information

Tutors

Eddie Glew

Eddie Glew is a Yeoman Basket Maker & Sculptor, weaving dreams in his workshop on the Staffordshire/Derbyshire border.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

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Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.