Willow Platters and Trays
with Tess Wakeling
Saturday 5th April
A one-day course learning how to make two different designs of willow trays, introducing you to the skills needed to make Catalan and frame baskets. Starting with ‘tension trays’, you will make a hoop from long rods of willow and then weave under and over the base sticks to build up an attractive and strong surface. During the afternoon you can make a leaf-shaped platter for the table, using a pre-dried frame to weave on using different colours of Somerset willow.
Both pieces will be useful for placing hot pans on the table, using as a cooling tray or beautiful hung on the wall.
Suitable for all ability levels.
Price includes lunch in our cafe and teas/coffee and cake.
There will be a £15 charge on the day to cover materials.
Simple lunch included.
9.30 - 4.30
£100 plus £15 cash on the day for materials
Tess teaches basket making at Ruskin Mill College in Gloucestershire, a centre for therapeutic craft which connects young people to the land and builds confidence and practical skills through making. She loves to pass on these skills to others and share in a craft that is satisfying and can be addictive to learn.
Working mostly with willow, Tess also sells her own designs after completing a City and Guilds Basketry qualification. Her willow lampshades are made to order and have been featured in Country Living’s ‘Modern Rustic’.
She loves bringing natural materials into the home, whether it’s a functional basket or sculptural art work. In an age where we are all increasingly aware of what we buy and where things come from, learning to make things from willow feels like a worthwhile step towards a more sustainable environment.