I am Elizabeth a basket maker in West Sussex.

I was first introduced to the craft by my mum who went on many weekend workshops.  I could see the joy she got from weaving willow into beautiful functional forms.  I was curious so I tried a one-day basketry course in Hackney. It offered me the chance to try my hand at framed baskets.  It left me not only with a finished piece but with a bundle of inspiration.  So, I went home and ordered a bundle of willow.  Unfortunately, I quickly realised that a rented flat in London with no garden wasn’t ideal for my new interest!

​

It has taken time to fully take root. A move to Worthing, raising a son, settling into a slower rhythm. And with that, the time finally came to truly embrace the art of basketmaking.

​

With a background in art, teaching, and interior design, creativity has always been a core thread in my life. But weaving willow offers something different: a way to connect with nature, slow down, and create something both beautiful and lasting.

​

Working with willow is a patient art. Each rod needs soaking — about a foot per day — followed by a mellowing period overnight. With bark-on willow, there's only one shot at soaking, meaning everything must be carefully planned in advance. A week before starting, I’m already counting out rods of different sizes for the basket to come.

​

I am passionate about my craft and enjoy learning new techniques all the time. The baskets I make are all unique and celebrate the natural colours of willow.