BA Autumn School 2025 – Willow Shopping Trolley or Log Basket

Tickets available from 10am 10th May 2025

Our Autumn School at Waterperry House and Gardens offers three days to immerse yourself in basketry with top-class tutors. It’s also a great chance to unwind and connect with fellow basketmakers from across the UK and beyond.

The ticket price for this residential event is £395, which includes all meals (vegetarian) and single-occupancy bedrooms.

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

There are three bursaries of £300 each, sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers’ Charitable Trust, available for the Autumn School.  Please click here for more information and to apply online.  Please also note that you need to purchase a ticket before you apply.

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

Course details

This course will focus on the design and production of baskets using willow and a wooden base. You can choose to make a shopping trolley, a log basket or even a dog basket. There is also the option to make a small basket with a handle. You will learn how to upset off a wooden base, how to shape the body of the basket and how to select and execute an appropriate border. If you choose to make a shopping trolley you will also learn how to attach axles and wheels along with a handle. We will also cover the selection and preparation of materials.

Suitability: for those who have made some willow baskets before and have a basic understanding of weave, but who wish to understand more about selecting the right weave or border and controlling shape.

Materials: £15 – £30 depending on the basket chosen.

Your tutor

Rachel is a professional teacher and basketmaker living on the outskirts of the Peak District. She works for Musgrove Willows, writing blogs and help and advice content, devising and designing their kits and as their lead basketry tutor.  She also teaches for the RHS, English Heritage, the National Trust and the RSPB.