Skills Class – Decorative Borders

Product description

The border is often the hardest bit of the basket to master and usually the thing you do when you are most tired.

We will spend the day examining a range of decorative borders and ways to improve your basic bordering to take it to a more advanced level.

You will focus on:

• selecting the right rods for the stakes and subsequent border (sorting to border height)
• selecting the right border for the type and style of basket
• selection of bodkins and other tools
• spacing between stakes and how that affects border choice
• how to weave the last rods without kinking
• what border to choose and why
• follow on borders
• correcting mistakes

We will also be exploring different types/varieties of willow to experience ‘slip or grip’ borders. There will be an opportunity to explore willow varieties you may not have used before, including our exclusive Buff Noir.

Please Note - mastering borders only takes place with repetition/practice. Borders take time to master the selection of the correct materials, tension, spacing/proportion, and rhythm.

We will not be working on a complete basket -you will go home with sample collars.

Suitable for intermediate students with weaving experience of a number of baskets who want to develop their skills in bordering. Prior to the course, you will have made several round baskets on courses and understand basic terminology. This course will not cover plait borders.

All our courses are supported with after class notes, videos and help/advice sheets and blog content to help you continue your weaving journey.

Please note:

• this course is physically demanding and you need a good degree of manual dexterity.

What do I need to bring?

• Glasses (if you need them for close-up work).
• Notebook and pen if you wish to make notes.
• Old clothes, covered, flat shoes (no sandals or open toes).
• Something to tie hair back with (if needed).

All materials included. Suitable for all weaving levels, great for beginners 18+. 
Should you have any specific needs please make us aware before attending the course.