Calendar of Events

Basketry - One Day Workshop

Date
Kind of Event
Workshop
Country
United Kingdom
Era(s)

Basketry is an elegant, simple and sustainable craft.

Great for everything from containers to fishing pots and even constructing buildings, it’s incredible what a humble rod of willow can become! Basketry in Britain goes back into our prehistory. Although modern materials have replaced many of the traditional willow containers that would be used in the home and for packaging, people are reconnecting with traditional crafts and materials as far more environmentally friendly options. Willow is strong and light and comes in a stunning array of varieties and colours, and right from the start there is craftsmanship in basketry: the willow trees have to be ‘coppiced’ as a way to create long straight rods to weave with. A bundle of rods will become a sturdy base, with several skilled weaves used to create the sides. The willow and ultimately the basket are moulded through skill, time and creativity to create an individual woven masterpiece and it’s crafting is a relaxing and satisfying way to wind down and slow the pace of life.

If you have ever fancied trying your hand at weaving a basket, now is the time! Join a community of likeminded people, and with guidance and support, to create your own small egg or berry-picking basket using our local willow, grown on the shores of Loch Tay.

Refreshments and a traditional lunch cooked in our Iron Age kitchen will be provided. You will go away with new skills, new connections, an information booklet and your own handcrafted basket to cherish and use at home, alongside the memories of a unique day spent immersed in prehistoric life.

Suitable for complete beginners! This is a chance to discover traditional methods of willow weaving among fellow enthusiasts and perhaps discover a new passion, all whilst immersed in the stunning setting of our prehistoric museum set in the hills of Highland Scotland.