It is beastly weather again here in Cornwall, high winds and heavy rain, I was lucky enough to be tucked away in a lovely warm workshop learning how to make a basket. I first had a go at this about 30 years ago, I made a wonky little fruit basket and while my mum who was on the same course made a lovely huge laundry basket. My mother was very talented at anything she put her hands to! We started off with a little round basket which are apparently the easiest to start with. By the end of the day it had started taking shape, though needed a bit of manipulating by the tutor to sort out some lumps and bumps. Once I got into a rhythm it was a really enjoyable process, and grew quickly. There are four classes altogether and I will hopefully complete two baskets. It's not the neatest basket, but not too bad for a first attempt by someone as cack handed as me and I will definitely use it when it's finished.
I really believe you are never too old to learn a new skill. Have you learned a new skill lately or have plans to give something a go? Are there any basket makers out there?
Chickpea xx
I have learnt to make a basket at school but have never made one since! I have no immediate plans to learn a new skills (new job not counted). Your basket making skills are good! I look forward to seeing the finished basket. x
ReplyDeletenice basket.. go you. I have always hankered after making a basket. As you know Im learning to write, maybe when thats done I shall learn to make a basket. Not wishing my life away but work is really getting in the way, roll on retirement..
ReplyDeleteWell done! I think your basket is amazing! I would love to do a course on basket making. Don't forget to show us the finished results. Take care in the horrible weather and keep warm xx
ReplyDeleteLooks like your making a great job of that basket. I've got two knitting projects on the go. Tomorrow I hope to be making some Christmas Stockings and i also want to Needlefelt a polar bear. I have some pressies to make and tonight I started Italian classes. All of my fellow bloggers seem to be extra busy just now, no surprise really.
ReplyDeleteJean
x
I learnt basketwork in 1980 when I started work in an occupational therapy department and basketwork was an essential skill. I have done little since, but have grown a large stand of willows which I am desperate to use to make baskets. I need to go on a curse to learn all over again. Your basket is looking good.
ReplyDeleteI think it looks great! Well done.
ReplyDeleteI've just tried to use a full sized weaving loom, and it's nnot as easy as it looks. in fact, it's impossible LOL
Well done, I will keep my eyes open for a course round here it looks like fun x
ReplyDeleteI love basket weaving, can't wait to see the finished item.
ReplyDeleteMy great great grandparents were full-time basket makers in Leeds in the 1860s, so it's the first thing I started to learn when I retired. I have 4 baskets and can return for more any time but at the moment I'm in love with the cabinet making I started shortly after the basket making, and that requires serious commitment.
ReplyDeleteI agree; not too old to learn but the body doesn't always allow it. The arthritis in my thumbs means that my days of learning artisanal skills are numbered. I'll enjoy something else later.
What fun learning a new skill, I am looking forward to your progress, you seem to be doing a fine job and something you will keep and use and have fond memories of making. :-)
ReplyDeleteWow, I am impressed! Personally I am trying to resurrect skills I learned years ago like knitting, cross stitch, and basic sewing. I have now bought a sewing machine and have tried your super pin wheels tutorial. My effort needs a little work ;-) but I am enjoying the learning. You are never too old to learn new skills. Go girl! X
ReplyDeleteWell done, it's something I would like a go at myself.
ReplyDeleteI think you will be busy enough with your new job Christan
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean Knittynutter!
Thank you Karen :)
Wow Jean, all sounds brilliant! I would love to learn Italian, it sounds so romantic.
Making a basket from your own willows would be amazing Frugal
Thanks Dani, I would love to weave but it looks so complicated
It was fun Julee, have a go!
Don't get too excited Marlene, it is my first :)
How fascinating Marianne! It is obviously in the genes. Cabinet making sounds interesting........ nooo mustn't start something else!
I love making things that I can actually use Dawn, like my quilts.
So pleased you have a sewing machine PP, keep practising. :)
It is a lovely creative thing to learn, have a go Joanne!
I love basket making,I did my first two courses ten years ago but never had time to do it on my own, two years ago both I and the OH did a course he enjoyed it, then we did another one earlier this year, but an entirely different technique, working from the top down then weaving in the bottom, this would be the traditional Irish way, used for making creels, I think the English way is easier. We have several stands of basket willow growing, greens and reds. We used some of these earlier in the year to make obelisks for the runner beans and sweet peas to grow up.
ReplyDeleteCurrently working on glass painting for the windows of the front porch.
After they are done I will do a bit more glass painting on items to sell at a Christmas fayre, plus making some blackcurrant jam and small Christmas puddings, all for the fayre.
I love the idea of making a basket. Yours is looking terrific!
ReplyDeleteWow, you only just learned how to do this? It looks fantastic, like you've been doing it all your life!
ReplyDeleteI would love to grow some willow to make baskets with Anne. Wow you are busy!
ReplyDeleteThank you Kristie and Jennifer :)
ReplyDeleteIt looks really good to me!! I hope that you enjoyed making it and learning something new, that is the most important bit! xx
ReplyDeleteThank you Amy :)
ReplyDeleteThat is great! It is good to try new things and they will be so useful too. xx
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