Hands on

Traditional skills and  where to learn them: Basketry

What is it?Basketry is the art of weaving a basket from strong, flexible lengths of willow, hazel or other plants.

What are the most suitable materials?Willow is the most popular material, as it is easy to grow and has the right balance of strength and flexibility. Once harvested, the willow is usually dried for a year, sorted into lengths and then soaked for up to a week to make it pliable.

How is it done?There are two main methods. The stake-and- strand approach involves making a base with a cross in the centre, then weaving willow rods outwards around its arms. Next you insert upright rods in the base and weave lighter rods around them to form the basket's sides. Finally, you weave rods around the top, to create a border. The second method involves making a frame or a hoop, around which you weave the rest of the basket.

What do the experts say?Frame baskets are "an easier, less-complicated type to make than the stake and strand", says Alison Fitzgerald, who gives courses in making frame baskets. (See Greenwood Baskets on benburb.com.) Once you have constructed the circular or oval hoop, you put the ribs of the basket in place. "These are the strong elements of the basket, around which the thinner pieces are woven," she explains. "Making a nice hoop is the trickiest part and the secret of the basket."

How long does it take?A professional needs about five hours to make a log basket, says Joe Hogan (joehoganbaskets. com). "Beginners would find it difficult to make a basket in a day but would manage to make two small baskets or one large basket over a two-day workshop." The main skills required, according to Hogan, are enthusiasm and determination. You also need strong fingers and hands, but you get those with practice.

Where do I sign up?Many professional basket makers offer courses. You can contact them through the Irish Basketmakers Association (irishbasketmakers. ie): call Barry Noyce on 086-8241393 (evenings). Alison Fitzgerald has a course on April 9th and 10th at the Organic Centre, Rossinver, Co Leitrim (071-9854338, theorganiccentre.ie). Renate Bradbury has a basketmaking workshop for beginners on April 9th at Greenan Farm, Rathdrum, Co Wicklow (0404-46000, greenanmaze.com). Basketry is also offered at the Centre for Environmental Living and Training, in Scarriff, Co Clare, on the Weekend in the Woods, which runs from April 30th to May 1st (061-640765, celtnet.org).