Make a split hazel 'swallow's nest' basket
Description
Suitable for: beginners, improvers. Considerations: Outdoors based, physically demanding, sitting still for long periods. Refreshments: Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available throughout the day. We also have a fantastic on-site cafe, Embers, run by local chef Shropshire Lad. The course: Learn how to make a split hazel ‘swallow’s nest' basket - a mini version of the traditional ‘whisket’. Split hazel basketry is classified as critically endangered by the Heritage Crafts Association, so you'll also be helping to keep these skills alive! You will be shown all of the techniques to prepare and assemble the components for your basket, straight from rods of hazel, with a minimum of tools. Tutor: Lewis Goldwater. - Member of Heritage Crafts Association. - Member of Basketmakers Association. - Member of Association of Pole Lathe Turners and Green Woodworkers. - Member of Countryside Management Association. "I am delighted that many dozens of people have been on my training courses over the last few years, and that some have been inspired to carry on with the craft and are themselves sharing these skills more widely. I do not want to be the next “last” whisket maker in my area!"
What's included in the price?
Your course fee includes tuition, tools and equipment, materials, and refreshments throughout the day.
Duration
6½ hours
Cancellation policy
Non-refundable - Refunds are not available
Maker
We are the Small Woods Association – the national organisation for woodland owners, workers, and supporters. We stand for sustainable woodlands that support wildlife, provide meaningful work, and are welcoming to people. A core part of our mission is providing learning and skills development. We offer a wide range of practical courses and training—covering everything from woodland management and coppicing to greenwood crafts and Social Forestry. Our learning opportunities are designed to support everyone from beginners to seasoned practitioners, helping build knowledge, confidence, and resilience within the woodland sector. We also champion Social Forestry and Wellbeing, recognising the vital role woodlands can play in supporting mental health, physical wellbeing, and stronger communities. Through our programmes and partnerships, we help bring the benefits of woodlands to more people. By booking a course with us you are supporting this valuable work.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Intermediate level
- Accommodation offered
- Public transport
- Parking provided
- Suitable for beginners
FAQs
You will need a packed lunch and any other food you require for the day. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be on offer throughout the day.
There is an on-site café, Embers, which serves delicious food and beverages and a supermarket approx. 5 minutes walk away.
Please note that Embers is closed on Mondays and provide a Sunday lunch menu to pre booked reservations only.
The Green Wood Centre is 10 minutes from Junctions 4 and 6 of the M54, with its connections to the M6 and M5.
There are frequent trains to Telford from Birmingham and Wales / Cheshire; we are approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Telford Central.
The Green Wood Centre is based in Coalbrookdale, just a short way from historic Ironbridge, and provides an innovative headquarters for Small Woods, set in the woods of the Ironbridge Gorge.
We promote sustainable living through a wood-based economy by running courses and events in sustainable woodland management, coppicing, crafts and related activities
