Woodland and Willow Basket Making, Woods Mill (22/02 & 01/03 2025)

Tutor: Danny Manning

During this practical 2 day course, you will learn how to create woven baskets utilising green/brown willow and natural materials gathered from forest and down land walks, hedgerows and your garden.

This course is for complete beginners and plenty of one to one support will be provided with the aim of completing a basket by the end of the two day session. Also included in the course will be practical advice on the materials (normally classified as annual prunes), that are suitable to gather, together with a possible short walk (weather permitting) to aid in identification.

There will be the opportunity to forage for material in the woodland during both sessions. We will also explore a range of weaving processes, including ‘French Randing’ and ‘3 Rod Whaling’, together with creating a border and handle for your basket in the second session.

If students complete a basket, there will be additional support to create a willow plant support (wigwam) and bird feeder.

Danny Manning is a basket maker and textile artist based in Eastbourne, East Sussex, and has been a member of the Basketry Association since 2020. He has developed his craft through exploring Sussex folklore, customs and traditional craft techniques, working with his own locally grown willow and unconventional materials found on the South Downs.

Venue: Classroom, Woods Mill, Henfield, BN5 9SD

Other information: Free parking available. Public toilets can be found in the car park and classroom. You are welcome to arrive early to explore the reserve.

What to bring: A pair of secateurs, pliers, an old knitting needle, wooden clothes pegs, old clothes, pack lunch, note book and pencil/pens. Coffee and tea provided.

Accessibility: If you would like to discuss accessibility for this event, please email [email protected]

Please read our terms and conditions before booking.