Description
Date: 14-15 November 2026 (2 Days), 9.30 am – 4.30 pm
Location: 75 Suttieside Road, Forfar, Angus. DD8 3NH
Course Details: Come and explore the traditional techniques found in Scottish frame baskets known as arm creels, once used by fishing communities along a small stretch of the northeast coastline in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This style of basket was carried over the arm by fisher wives to display fish at markets and on their selling rounds.
Learn how to weave your own version of this traditional creel using a distinctive construction method that produces a strong, sturdy basket with a striking arrow detailing that appears once the ribs are trimmed. Completed creels make great foraging or harvest baskets and are equally useful as tool baskets or for carrying a knitting project on the go.
All materials and tools are provided.
Some previous experience with willow is helpful but not essential. Please note that working with willow can be demanding on the hands and requires good hand strength and flexibility. If you’re comfortable working with your hands, this workshop can be a great first introduction to basketmaking.
Catering: A hearty soup and freshly baked sourdough will be provided each day for lunch. Refreshments will be available throughout the day, and cake will appear for an afternoon pick-me-up!
Group size: The workshop will run with a minimum of two participants and a maximum of four,
Facilities: We’ll work in my garden workshop, which has a wood burner, with an undercover outdoor space overlooking the garden that can also be used during warmer weather. There is also access to bathroom facilities in the main house throughout the day.
What to Wear: Basketry can be a little damp since we work with soaked willow. I recommend wearing comfortable, casual clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty, and bringing layers if the weather is cool.