BA Spring School 2025 : Sculptural Willow Baskets

Tickets available from 10am 11th January 2025

Our Spring School at Harrogate Ladies’ College offers four full days to immerse yourself in basketry with top-class tutors. There is also plenty of opportunity to relax and get to know fellow basketmakers from all around the UK and beyond.

Both residential (single-occupancy room, shared bathroom, all meals) and non-residential (includes lunches and Sunday evening meal) options will be available. In 2025 the ticket prices are:
• Residential: £575
• Non-residential: £335

Only one ticket is available per BA member, and material costs are payable directly to tutors at the end of the week.

By purchasing a  ticket you are agreeing to the cancellation policy as detailed in the Basketmakers’ Associations Terms and Conditions

These sculptural baskets are a fascinating blend of basketry and artistic impression and are an ideal way to learn and practice how to use directional weave, 3-rod weave or random weave.

The baskets start with a single wreath and involve an organic, build-as-you-go process which
allows you to experiment with materials and shapes along the way.

Suitability: for basketmakers of all abilities

Estimated cost of materials: £20

Your tutor

Mel has been a willow artist and basketmaker of traditional and contemporary baskets for the past 20 years.

She specialises in large scale willow sculpture and currently has a life size Sir Isaac Newton sitting her workshop. She has a deep respect for traditional techniques but also loves to work in a more sculptural, artistic way. Mel is an experienced and dedicated teacher who is passionate about sharing those techniques and often leads workshops and courses for individuals of all ages and skill levels.