Betty's Basket

22nd October  -  10am - 4pm

23rd October  -  10am - 4pm

This 2-day course to make an oval basket is designed for improvers rather than beginners, so if you have already made a basket or two, move on to this one to hone your skills.  Christiane has chosen to teach making this versatile basket that she calls Betty’s Basket, in honour of her mum, who would have loved this one. “Its perfect for so many things – a slimline shopper (doesn’t bump into people), a good size and shape for picnics, strong enough for a laptop and books, or even to hang on a hook in the kitchen for storing veg.

• Select suitable willow
• Make a traditional continental-style oval base
• Build the basket's sides, using various weaves such as waling and randing
• Make a strong border
• Choose and attach leather strap handles 

Course Tutor: Christiane Gunzi

Based in East Sussex, Christiane handcrafts traditional and contemporary basketry using willow, rush, birch and other natural materials.  She trained at the City Lit in London (2011-13). Influenced by natural patterns, textures and tones, Christiane enjoys experimenting with practical basketry designs, as well as exploring non-functional basketry using materials foraged from the countryside and beaches near her home.

Christiane runs basket weaving classes for beginners and improvers: “I love passing on my passion for this ancient craft”. Christiane’s work has been exhibited in London, Kent, Surrey and Sussex.