First Look at Basket Making at The Goodlife Centre

Nov. 11, 2012 - PRLog -- Our second studio was strewn with long rushes last Saturday Morning, as expert and passionate tutor, Claire Murphy laid out everything we would need to begin making an elegant bread basket.

The room smelt of a country walk and as the rush was misted to keep its moist pliability, the extra soothing scent of lavender hung in the air.

I was surprised and thrilled to learn how engaging this craft is. My memories of anything baskets dates back to scratchy, unforgiving, wet cane in school craft clubs where we laboured to make ugly trays and dolls cribs.


The rush that Claire brought was beautiful to touch. The reeds grow in  freshwater streams and are the same ‘bull rushes’ of bible fame. They are picked in the summer and dried and stored. When needed, they can be revived with misted water. We gradually gained confidence in the strength and pliability as we bent and folded the reeds into place.

It was an absorbing day and has changed my view of basket weaving for good. Its a shame that this ancient art is being forgotten and The Goodlife Centre aims to make sure we do our bit to share this satisfying and worthwhile skill.

Come and be surprised by this near forgotten craft.

Next Rush Basket Weaving workshop - Saturday 9th february, 10am-5pm. (http://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/basket-making/)