Date 16-17 October 2027 (2 Days)

Price £225

Maximum number of places 8

Book For further information or to book with Rosie, please email r.farey@hotmail.co.uk

Course Details

On this two day course, rush basketmaker Rosie Farey will teach you traditional rush weaving techniques including check weave, pairing and track borders to make a 'made to measure' boater hat and table mat. 

On day one we’ll be adapting hat moulds to fit and weaving the majority of the hat. Day two finishing the brim and using the skills learnt to create a second piece, a table mat.

You'll be using Common Club Rush that Rosie harvests herself from the Somerset levels. You will learn about the harvesting, drying and dampening processes required to use the natural material. Being so wonderfully soft and supple, weaving with rush is perfect for both beginners and those with a bit more experience, However, please be aware that the majority of the hat will be woven whilst standing up. If you have any issues with your back please don't hesitate to get in touch to discuss the suitability of the course.

 All tools and materials required will be provided.

Catering:

For all courses, a hearty, healthy lunch is provided (please let your tutor know of any dietary requirements when booking), along with tea, coffee and water. Breakfast and evening meal is self-catered, with firewood and charcoal-based cooking available.

We also provide firewood, brew-kit, washing up and cooking facilities, crockery and cutlery. 

Guests should bring; barbecue food or pans for cooking on a fire for breakfast and evening meals.

Facilities:

Facilities include covered workshop spaces, an undercover outdoor cooking set-up, comfortable compost toilet, plenty of loo roll, and handwashing.  A good stone track leads to the the wood where there is space to park, please keep speed under 10mph.

Tutor Bio

Rosie Farey @rosiefarey is a basket maker working predominantly on a small scale using natural materials such as Bulrush and Common Juncus to create fine, decorative and functional baskets. Having been bought up to value skills and good craftsmanship, she believes that it is important to keep old traditions and techniques alive.

The meditative rhythm of weaving is the essence of her practice, using simple traditional weaving techniques adapted to suit her style and scale of working. Each basket is unique. The unpredictability of the natural materials means that the final outcome is shaped by the temperament of the rush.