Two-Day Scottish Arm Creel Course | Ellekers Wood, North Yorkshire
This two-day course is ideal for those with some previous experience of working with willow and offers a gentle introduction to frame basketry techniques. Exploring a lost basket once used by fishing communities on the northeast coast of Scotland.
£220.00
In stock
Date: 17-18 July 2026 (2 Days)
Location: ELLEKERS WOOD, nr BOROUGHBRIDGE, NORTH YORKSHIRE YO61 2SE
Ellekers Wood is a 20-acre planted ancient woodland in North Yorkshire; undergoing a restoration back to native broadleaf cover with coppice.
Course Details
Come and explore the traditional techniques found in Scottish frame baskets (more commonly 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. These baskets were carried 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 and sturdy basket. The ribs of the basket
During the day, Rachel will be happy to share stories and insights gathered through her research into this historic technique, for anyone interested in hearing more about the heritage behind the basket.
All materials and tools are provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own fine 4ft willows if you’d like to incorporate them into your basket.
This workshop is best suited to those with some previous experience of working with willow.
Catering:
For all courses, a hearty, healthy lunch is provided (please let your tutor know of any dietary requirements when booking), along with tea, coffee and water. Breakfast and evening meal is self-catered, with firewood and charcoal-based cooking available.
We also provide firewood, brew-kit, washing up and cooking facilities, crockery and cutlery.
Guests should bring; barbecue food or pans for cooking on a fire for breakfast and evening meals.
Facilities:
Facilities include covered workshop spaces, an undercover outdoor cooking set-up, comfortable compost toilet, plenty of loo roll, and handwashing. Â A good stone track leads to the wood where there is space to park, please keep speed under 10mph.
If you are interested in Camping at Ellekers Wood please contact Rachel for more details