Description
Course Date: Sunday 29th March 2026
Location: Paddock Art Studios, Paddock Lane, Lewes, BN7 1TW
These courses are for those who have woven a basket or two. They are held in a tranquil setting with nature all around us to fully reconnect and rewind. Improver’s day courses are £140, start at 09:30 and finish around 17:30.
About 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 initially started her journey with Alan Sage and has since attended several courses and workshops; last but not least a 5-day course with Benjamin Nauleau. She has been teaching basketry techniques on a professional level since 2018 and will teach you the ancient, professional basketry techniques at your own pace and with your needs in mind, while focusing on the mindful and therapeutic elements of weaving with Sussex and Kent-grown materials.
What can I Expect?
- A relaxed time, immersing yourself in being creative with natural materials in a tranquil setting;
- A foraging basket that will sit comfortably around your hip due to the bean-like shape, that is about 35cms x 25cms with oak bark tanned leather strap and a weaving technique of your choice made out of different varieties of local, Sussex grown basketry willow;
- The step-by-step tricks of the trade, easy to follow from start to finish;
- This course is not for the faint-hearted, as it’s chock-a-block filled to the brim with techniques;
- We’re getting the basics right with soaking – do’s and don’ts for different varieties of willow;
- Your sturdy basket is made from 100% sustainable locally (Sussex) grown 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. If you’d like to purchase an oak bark leather strap for your basket, then you can do that for an additional £25. Please let me know two weeks in advance of the workshop.
There is a maximum of six and a minimum of four participants per course.
It’s a fantastic time to spend with friends, but also really refreshing to share with like-minded people you’ve not met before.
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. Truly refreshing for both mind and spirit.
Is this for me?
You will have made a basket or two quite recently and are familiar with some of the techniques; how to weave a base, perhaps even an oval base, how to weave the wailing and some of the side weaves.
Locations
I try to organise the courses in creative and / or rural locations; on farms and in studios for instance. This way, we have the benefits of nature and inspiration 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 two weeks before the course date to allow for the preparation to take place.
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