Frame basketry
Time: 10:30 - 16:30
Location: Keeley Street
- Course Code: VC188
- Dates: 19/07/25 - 02/08/25
- Time: 10:30 - 16:30
- Taught: Sat, Daytime
- Duration: 3 sessions (over 3 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Katie Price
Course Code: VC188
Duration: 3 sessions (over 3 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
Join us for an immersive and creative workshop where you'll explore the craft of frame basketry. Perfect for beginners and learners looking to improve, this course offers an opportunity to learn the techniques of basket weaving using natural materials.
Using a round hoop as the main frame, you'll weave around this structure, attaching ribs to give your basket shape and using a variety of natural materials like willow or rush to create patterns.
What will we cover?
• Introduction to the style and history of frame basketry
• Material selection for different areas of the basket
• Making hoops using different techniques to create the basket frame
• How to join and weave the body of the basket.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Create frames which you can confidently fill with a variety of woven materials
• Identify the use of basketry tools and how to use them safely when making your frame basket
• Create a handheld frame basket or several samples in differing styles.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course welcomes beginners and students with previous basketry experience who would like to practise and refine their skills. Basketry involves some physical strength and manual dexterity so should you have any concerns, then please do contact visual arts for advice before committing yourself.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
This is a practical course. You will be taught by demonstration, individual and group tuition. There will be examples and images to support your learning.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. You are welcome to bring fibres/materials to add to your samples if you like, please discuss this with the tutor in week 1. Please bring a book for notetaking. If you have your own basketry tools, please bring them labelled if you prefer. If you have one, a camera might be useful for recording your sampling and your work-in-progress.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday from 10:30 – 12:00 then 15:00 – 17:00
We run a range of short and long Basketry courses through the year. The two-year VA190 City Lit basketry course is the most successful. It is a foundation-based course from which many of our alumni have gone on to establish their own professional practice. Applications open in early 2025. You are more than welcome to register your interest by contacting visualarts@citylit.ac.uk.