Featured Interesting History Basket Making UK

How lovely @Ownedbybear. Sometimes it is the simple things that are the most precious

 

I just checked my bookshelves and found I have a copy of her book, Simple Basketry. I have been growing willow and learning to make baskets for several years now, and have collected as many books on the subject as I can. The art of weaving with willow has been enjoying a renaissance lately, and there are a number of newer books written by contemporary weavers. But I particularly like the older books written when basketry was still an important practical craft. Cardboard and plastic have replaced the many functions that basketry used to fulfill.

 

@2manybooks that is exciting to know you have one of my relatives books on your bookshelf and you actually grow willow to make baskets
I have ordered her books and will attempt a basket or two. Since the ban on plastic bags here there has also been a renaissance of these beautiful baskets. I have two market baskets I use every weekend

 

If you can, try to find a basketmaker in your area that you can watch and learn from. It is not easy to learn the techniques entirely from books. But some recent ones that I have found particularly helpful are:
The Complete Book of Basketry Techniques, by Sue Gabriel and Sally Goymer; and
Willow Basketry: A How-to Guide, by Jonathan Ridgeon.
Both are well illustrated, with clear explanations.

 

Thank you. That's a really good suggestion. I have looked online and classes are held nearby where I live so I think I might sign up