3 day course with Hilary Burns MBE, 27-29 March 2026

This course aims to revive the traditional ‘lost’ technique of scuttlework. A form of basketry that combines willow weaving with green cleft wood splints, to make a closely woven basket that was historically associated with winnowing and storing grain. Hilary Burns has, over many years, researched scuttlework. Together with Ambrose Vevers’ workshop venue, where the barn and woodland offer an ideal combination of tools, materials and space, we offer a three-day introductory course to explore the French and English methods once used to make these sturdy baskets.

Skills needed – basic basketry and/or greenwoodwork. This course is not recommended for beginners.

We will cleave ash from the woodland and form splints using a shavehorse and drawknife, followed by weaving with white willow.

While making one, more likely, two baskets over the three days, you will learn about the history of this technique and the various forms it takes from Hilary’s research.

Isla and Ambrose will be hosting and helping teach throughout the course.

Includes a wholesome lunches and refreshments

10am- 4:30pm (may run later on Sunday)

Set in a beautiful off-grid timber framed barn with a roaring fire and great company, surrounded by woodlands on the edge of Dartmoor.

Venue address: Ashburton Christmas Tree Farm, Newton Abbot TQ13 7EZ, Devon, Googlemaps.

Adults only.

Terms and Conditions.

Weekend courses require 4 weeks written notice (email) to cancel or reschedule and the course cost will be refunded. A £30 admin fee will be deducted from the full amount for each booking.

Less than 4 weeks from the beginning of the course the booking is not refundable unless your place can be filled the original place is filled; in which case the full amount will refunded. a £30 admin fee will be deducted from the full amount for each booking.

Please get in touch for more info 07816 899527