Rush Bags
A day in the woods, weaving English rush into a practical and beautifully textured cross-body bag. Perfect for foraging trips or for carrying your every-day things. The pared-down design gives this bag a quiet elegance.
July
10.30am - 5pm
£145
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.
English rush is a native plant with a long history of use in traditional basket making. Much loved by basketmakers for its pliability and versatility, a really nice material to work with. It's also easy on the hands, and it mellows to a soft golden colour.
What you'll learn
How, when and where to harvest and prepare English rush (Schoenoplectus lacustris), and its ecology.
Different weaving techniques including check weave and pairing.
A simple, elegant border to complete your weaving, and how to add a strap that fits your body comfortably.
Who this is for
Suitable for peple who are used to making things with their hands.
Not sure? have a quick look at my skill-level guide.
Group size is limited to 10 participants.
What's included
A simple but hearty and delicious organic vegetarian lunch is provided, cooked on the camp fire. We’ll also have a kettle on the fire, with teas, biscuits and fresh fruit available all day.
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.
Follow-on courses: Rush Foraging Baskets, Rush & Wild Rose Baskets, Looped Rush Bags; Reed Mace Baskets.
Any questions? please have a look at the FAQ page, where you can also read our mobile phone policy
See you in the woods!
Featured in the Guardian lifestyle section. National Geographic & Toyota put Native Hands in their top 125 UK adventures.
