TIP: Click the   Video tab to see this activity in action

Hello, there seems to be a problem, you have either not got java enabled, or you do not have the latest Flash player installed. Please click here to install the latest player, once complete, close that window and refresh this page.

A basket is a woven container which is traditionally constructed from stiff fibres, often made of willow. The top is either left open or the basket may be fitted with a lid. Traditionally a very skilled trade which is very much in decline

Popularity
Decline of the basket trade has continued throughout the twentieth century for many economic reasons. An economy in which time has much value, but quality very little has no place for a durable product that is extremely labour-intensive.

Location
As an activity of recreation it can be practised indoors or outside, from the home or any where of your convenience. Often practised as a demonstration craft at country and craft fairs.

Age
Basket making is a craft that can be learnt from a very early age, and practised by any age. A very satisfying and therapeutic activity, with an attractive and really practical and useful end product.

Ability
Basket weaving utilizes stakes or spokes and weavers. Stakes/spokes usually form the bottom of the basket and become the vertical framework for the basket sides. Round baskets have spokes; other shapes have stakes.

Description
The art of basket making was developed at an early stage of man's evolution. In the UK oak, hazel and willow provided material for making the strong rigid containers. Fences and houses, too, were built from wickerwork or wattles. Early baskets were probably much like those found in the farms of highland regions, until the second half of the twentieth century. In lowland Britain the weaving of willow, using different techniques, developed into a profession and ultimate a sizable industry.

Dedication
Basketry is very hard on the hands and arms, when practised as a profession, as a hobby, simply stop when you have had enough, basket making is an activity that you can take up or put down as it pleases you.

Closely Related Activities
weaving 635, copsing, hurdle making 501 and rural crafts using the imagination and natural materials.

Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.

Energy

Arms

Legs

Sight

Hearing

Speech

Learning

Please be advised that this record has not necessarily been reviewed by people with the expertise required to provide you with complete, accurate or reliable information. The information and images for this activity are supplied by the general public, Please contact us if there is a breach of copyright or you wish to improve the data.