Crisp - Willow

A variety of basket-making willows, cut in January, sorted and drying naturally in the sunshine.

THERE ARE MANY, MANY DIFFERENT WAYS OF WEAVING A BASKET WITH WILLOW. WORLDWIDE THERE ARE AS MANY VARIATIONS OF TECHNIQUES AS THERE ARE TYPES OF WILLOW. OVER THE CENTURIES DIFFERENT CULTURES HAVE BEEN INCREDIBLY INGENIOUS IN THE WAYS IN WHICH THEY HAVE INTERPRETED THIS REMARKABLE MATERIAL TO MAKE THEIR BASKETS.

I have been a professional willow grower and basket maker for more than 30 years. I have set out to earn a living making functional baskets from homegrown materials, and to practise using the inherent nature of those materials to the best of my knowledge, ability and experience. My aim is to be innovative while retaining a respect for the old patterns and traditions of this craft.

In 1985 I completed a BA (Hons) in woven textiles at West Surrey College of Art and Design and I left qualified to weave fabric for upholstery. For my thesis I decided I would research the use of willow for basket making, thinking I might combine this with the practical side of the course. During the research I came across a couple who, unbeknown to me, would have a fundamental impact on my career choice and way of life.

Judy and David Drew lived in a beautiful Somerset cob house that they had sympathetically renovated. They lived about as far from digital and industrial development as was possible in 20th-century Britain. They were almost self-sufficient in food and willow. David was a full-time willow grower and basket maker, with an expert knowledge and understanding of his environment and all that it could provide. I was hooked. Growing up with practical parents, a love of the outdoors and a lot of energy, I had found the life for me. Sponsored by the Crafts Council, I was fortunate to spend one year apprenticed to David. We worked together on and off for the following five years.

So, for three decades now I have grown willow and made baskets. I have been lucky enough to work with the seasons and out in the elements, growing a material that keeps me connected to nature and my environment. To master the use of willow you must first understand its characteristics and qualities. A perfect basket depends on the makers empathy with the material and tools, on repetition and experience, combined with the intention in the makers mind. This practice requires slow and steady observation; repetition allows for mindful development in understanding the material. My working life gives me a questioning, rudimentary symbiosis with nature and the environment, and I will always feel privileged to be in this position.

Many years ago it was common for a basket maker to serve an apprenticeship lasting anywhere between three and five years. This meant that he or she would have enough experience and knowledge of materials, tools and products to be able to perform the craft to a high standard with speed and efficiency in order to make strong baskets and to earn a living. Sadly, today its unusual to find opportunities for apprenticeships. This knowledge is still valued, but it is hard to find other than through books or weekend courses.

I hope the information and advice included in this book, along with the range of projects chosen, will enable you to share the essence of making an object from a natural material, and that you will have the opportunity to experience the delightful fulfilment that growing willow and basket making can bring.