Rush Bags

2026 dates TBC

10.30am – 5pm

Venue: open air woodland setting in a 70 acre ancient coppiced wood on a family-run working farm: peaceful and beautiful Dernwood Farm Nr Heathfield, East Sussex.

Spend a day in the woods, round a camp fire, weaving a cross-body bag using true English rush (Schoenoplectus lacustris). You’ll make a beautifully textured bag with the check-weave and pairing techniques, learning how to make the border and how to add a strap. Perfect for foraging trips, carrying your daily essentials, or for keeping precious things in. The pared-down style of the bag gives it a quiet elegance.

Open Soon For Bookings, Register Your Interest

English rush is a native plant with a long history of use in traditional basket making. It’s much loved by basketmakers for its pliability and versatility, being a really nice material to work with. It’s also easy on the hands, and it mellows to a soft golden colour.

Suitable for all levels, including beginners who are used to makng things with their hands. Groups are kept small to allow for individual attention.

A simple but hearty vegetarian lunch is provided, we’ll have have a kettle on the camp fire, plus a huge tarp on hand for cover in case we need it. I aim to offer you a satisfying learning experience as well as an enjoyable time away from it all. To support you in getting the most from the days, we’ll connect to the woodland surroundings through a short and simple, guided mindfulness-based practice.

This is the second workshop I’ve done with Ruby – what a wonderfully gifted teacher. So much care is taken – from making fire, to foraging the plants, and imparting valuable knowledge in such a clear and kind way. And weaving is glorious, it’s so satisfying. What an amazing way to learn basketmaking. Julia, Devon

Accommodation: camping is available at the farm venue and details will be sent to you when you book on the course. The farm also has glamping options- cosy bell tents and cabins with wood-burners. The cost of staying at the farm isn’t included in the cost of the course. Read about accommodation options.