Louise Brown

My interest in basketmaking was sparked more than twenty years ago when I enrolled in a local basketry course. From that moment I was hooked. The possibilities for creativity out of, essentially, a pile of sticks were endless and I wanted to learn all the techniques. Since then I deepened my knowledge through attending as many workshops and courses by as many different basketmakers as I could find or afford! The City Lit College in Covent Garden, West Dean College near Chichester and Westhope Craft College in Shropshire have all provided me with inspirational teachers and teaching. In 2016/17 I completed the City & Guilds course in Basketry at Westhope.

I have been a member of the Basketmakers' Association from my earliest days. This inspiring voluntary organisation opened my eyes to the incredible diversity within basketry, both traditional and contemporary, and to the many makers in this country and overseas. Furthermore, I had the honour of Chairing the Association for two years, 2023-25.

In July 2026 I became a Yeoman member of the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers.

Gaining the City & Guilds qualification in basketry ten years ago, followed by a teaching certificate, gave me the confidence to share my passion with others through teaching. I now run a comprehensive range of workshops and progressive courses from my teaching studio just outside WInchester. I also teach occasional adult education classes in Winchester and at other venues in Hampshire and beyond.

Nearly all my classes are aimed at complete beginners, or those with just a little previous experience. I do not run advanced skills classes. My joy comes from sharing my craft with those who have never experienced weaving with willow; hopefully developing a new generation of basketmakers, either as a hobby or a career change.

• Basketry
• Traditional
• Willow (Basketry)