Description
Course Date: Saturday 22 November 2025
Location: King John’s Nursery, Sheepstreet Lane, Etchingham, TN19 7AZ
These courses are for people who’ve made a basket or two. They are held in a tranquil setting with nature all around us to fully reconnect and rewind. Full-day courses are £120, start at 09:30 and finish around 17:30.
About Marianne, your Teacher
Marianne is a full-time basketmaker and willow grower with a workshop on the border between East Sussex and Kent. She has been weaving since 2006 and teaching basketry techniques on a professional level since 2018 and will teach you the ancient, professional basketry techniques at your own pace, while focusing on the mindful and therapeutic elements of weaving with natural materials.
What can I Expect?
- A relaxed time, immersing yourself in being creative with natural materials in a tranquil setting;
- A hip-model foraging basket with curve around the hip of about 30-40cms, backpack of about 60cm or shopping basket with willow handle over the middle, all with a weaving technique of your choice made out of different varieties of local, Sussex grown basketry willow;
- It is possible to purchase an oak bark tanned leather strap or two for your basket for an additional £20-£23 each;
- The right way to plan for your basket, select rods and soaking process;
- The step-by-step, easy to follow guidance from the start of your oval base until the finished product;
- You will learn ancient professional basketry techniques and explore other projects with the same use of techniques;
- In-depth knowledge about cultivation and preparation of willow and hedgerow materials;
- Your lovely basket is made from 100% sustainable Sussex materials, the ethical, eco-friendly way; and
- All willow, use of tools (if you don’t like using your own), teas, coffees and fruit are included. I advise people to bring a packed lunch.
It’s a fantastic time to spend with friends, but also really refreshing to share with like-minded people you’ve not met before.
Courses are kept to a maximum of 6 participants per discipline.
Basket weaving is very therapeutic, as you are using head, heart and hands, bringing body and mind back in sync. Working in a group allows you to share experiences, bounce off ideas, so it’s also a great way to build new friendships. Does wonders for both body and mind.
Is this for me?
Over the years, people with disabilities, or arthritis were still able to weave a basket. Not quite sure about your abilities, then just get in touch and I will assess to see whether it’s for you.
Locations
I try to organise the courses in rural locations; on farms for instance. This way, we have the benefits of nature around us to fully reconnect and rewild.
Please contact me for a more tailored experience.
Please note: A minimum of four delegates is required to run this course. Should bookings not reach the minimum number this course may be rescheduled. Please book your course a two weeks before the course date to allow for the preparation to take place.
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