This two day Welsh Cyntell basket course will enable you to weave your very own Cyntell. These baskets are fantastic as washing baskets, log baskets or toy baskets. You’ll also be learn how to create the hoop and ribs but these will be created and provided for the course.
£190.00
On this Welsh Cyntell basket course, participants will begin a hands-on journey into traditional basket weaving. The focus is specifically on crafting the iconic Welsh Cyntell basket.
Participants will learn about the Cyntell basket’s history and significance in Welsh culture. They will understand its traditional uses and the techniques passed down through generations.
The instructor will guide participants through the process of preparing willow rods. They will teach proper soaking and softening techniques to make the rods pliable for weaving. The instructor will explain how to select the correct size and quality of willow for different basket parts. They will ensure a strong and durable final product through careful instruction.
Skilled instructor Sarah Hatton will guide participants in fundamental weaving techniques for crafting a Cyntell basket. Participants will use willow rods to attach the ribs to the hoop of the Welsh Cyntell. The instructor will demonstrate the weaving process using different lengths of willow at certain stages. Sarah will teach participants how to split and shave a one-inch-thick willow rod to create the remaining four ribs. Participants will add the ribs and complete the remaining section of the Cyntell basket.
By the end of the course, each participant will have crafted their own Cyntell basket from start to finish. They’ll leave not only with a beautiful, handwoven basket but also with the skills and confidence to continue weaving on their own.
The course provides an opportunity to meet and connect with others who share an interest in traditional crafts. Participants often enjoy the camaraderie and exchange of ideas that occur during the workshop.
Overall, the Welsh willow Cyntell basket course offers a rich, rewarding experience, blending practical skill-building with cultural appreciation in a supportive and engaging environment.
This intensive two-day course will involve extensive weaving, so participants should be ready for hands-on work. Sarah designed the course to build on prior basket-making experience and tailored it for those with some background in the craft.
This course is £190 payable by Stripe, Paypal, bank transfer or by cheque. I will hold the course between 10:00am and 4:30pm in Nantgarw China Works Museum, Cardiff.
All materials and tools are provided and you take home everything you make. Please bring any refreshments, snacks and a packed lunch with you.
If the course is full please leave your email address on the waiting list. Sarah will be notify you when she adds a new course date.
Sarah Hatton is a skilled willow grower and basket maker based in Caerphilly, where she cultivates 25 varieties of willow on her smallholding. She teaches traditional basketry, willow weaving, and creative basket making using her own sustainably grown materials.
Her work includes high-profile commissions, such as a willow horse sculpture for National Trust property Tredegar House and handwoven baskets presented to world leaders at the NATO summit. Sarah’s courses are warm, hands-on, and welcoming, ideal for both beginners and experienced makers.
Students learn practical willow weaving skills and traditional techniques in a relaxed, supportive setting. Each course is designed to inspire creativity and confidence with this timeless craft.
If you are unable to attend a course please let us know as soon as possible.
