Anna’s willow weaving workshops have been a Scottish Craft School staple for over four years, with loyal returners joined by an ever-growing gang of beginner basketeers. Her open, intuitive teaching style encourages people to explore both material and form, problem-solving and innovating as they go. Generous with her deep knowledge of weaving techniques, Anna shares the fundamentals of the craft before guiding students to find their own voice within the art of basketry.

Her connection to the craft begins with the material itself. In spring, you’ll find her alongside friends in her willow patch, harvesting the year’s crop while tending and preparing the beds for the next. Willow growing and basketry have long been rooted in community, with people coming together to cultivate materials and create functional vessels for everyday life, from foraging to fishing. Anna brings this same sense of shared making into the classroom, fostering a sociable, supportive environment where skills develop and friendships take root.

Our beginner willow basketry courses are carefully structured to make learning feel manageable and enjoyable. Each class usually takes place over two consecutive Fridays, giving you time between sessions to absorb what you’ve learned, practise at your own pace, and return ready for the next stage. This format works particularly well for beginners, helping to build confidence without feeling overwhelming.

For those ready to take things further, Anna’s annual Summer School and Spring Intensive offer a rare opportunities to spend four immersive days focused on willow basketry. This flexible, student-led course allows you to shape your own path, with Anna’s guidance supporting more ambitious projects. Previous participants have created everything from decorative platters and sculptural wreaths to full-sized laundry baskets, all while deepening their understanding of the material and the process.

Upcoming Courses: