Description
Thurs 26 March, 10am – 2pm
Join basketmaker Simon Cooper (The Bumbling Basketeer) for a relaxed, hands-on introduction to the most satisfying craft of hand-bound brush making. Using natural Tampico or Arenga fibres and colourful nylon thread, you’ll create fully functional brushes that are as satisfying to use as they are to look at. These brushes are made to work hard — perfect for your kitchen, studio, camper van, workshop, or wherever else life takes you — but they’re also beautiful objects in their own right. Hang them on the wall, keep them by the sink, or give them as a gift (if you can bear to part with them).
During the workshop, you’ll make up to three brushes, working across two different brush forms. You’ll also explore decorative details and finishing touches, allowing you to personalise each piece so that no two brushes are ever the same. The colourful thread not only adds character and individuality, but also strength and durability.
The workshop is traditionally done with shoes off (not necessarily barefoot, but bear in mind when you get dressed in the morning that your socks will be on show. Matching socks are optional, no judgement here!). This gives you better control over the tension of the thread as you wind it tightly around your fibres to form the handle – a surprisingly intuitive and meditative part of the process.
By the end of the session, you’ll leave with your completed brushes and the confidence to continue making and experimenting at home.
No previous experience needed — just curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to try something a little different.
About Your Tutor:
“Simon is a traditional basketmaker based in Crieff and Scotland’s only practicing oak swill basketmaker – a critically endangered craft — made slowly, by hand, from tree to basket. Alongside his basketry, he creates hand-bound brushes using natural fibres, combining heritage methods with contemporary colour and design. Simon teaches approachable, enjoyable workshops that focus on craftsmanship, creativity, and letting each maker find their own individual style.”
- All tools are provided for use at the brush making workshop and all materials are included in the course cost.
- Tea and coffee are provided but participants should bring their own lunch and utensils (we don’t have facilities for students to refrigerate or reheat meals)
- All of our classes are suitable for over 16s, younger crafters may be accommodated if accompanied by a participating adult but please contact us before booking
- All of our workshops are held at Craft Central, High Street, Dunblane, FK15 0EE
- If the class you wanted to join is fully booked you can email us at hello@scottishcraftschool.com to be added to the waiting list
- If you need to cancel or reschedule your workshop we need at least three weeks notice and a cancellation fee does apply. Please read our cancellation policy before booking
