These include professional basketmakers and teachers as well as researchers, collectors and people who simply like baskets or enjoy ‘having a go’ from time to time.
Delivered through a regular programme of workshops, talks, visits, social gatherings and with opportunities to exhibit.
New members are always very welcome.
2026 / WHAT’S ON / EVENTS
JANUARY – NYS (New Year Social) Saturday 10th January, 11.00am – 4.30pm.This year’s NYS will be a whole day event as we are having two speakers.
OB members only. VENUE: NOA, Diamond Place in Summertown, Oxford
2026 / WHAT’S ON / EVENTS
MARCH – AGM
(Annual General Meeting) Saturday 28th March, 2.00pm – 4.30pm. Speakers TBC and more information to follow. OB members only. NEW VENUE: Mill Street Arts in Eynsham.
2026 / WHAT’S ON / WORKSHOPS
WORKSHOPS: SAVE THE DATE. Course titles and details TBC. OB members only.
2026 workshops will be designed around the theme of “the year of useful objects”.
So far, these will include:
7th February, Saturday. Theme – ‘plant fibre and willow lampshades’ to banish those dark winter days. With Mollie McMillen: contemporary basket maker and willow weaver.
14th March, Saturday. Theme – ‘plant supports, both obelisk and herbaceous’ looking forward to the emergence of Spring. With the StickSmith Dave Jackson: organic willow grower, coppicer and rural craft teacher.
9th May, Saturday. Theme – ‘a willow handbag/shoulder bag with straps’ a very elegant take on a useful item! With Sarah Le Breton Willow: basket maker, designer, teacher, and artist in residence at Kelmscott Manor.
13th June, Saturday. Away-day at North Aston Organics with artist Fred Branson. Theme – ‘understanding, foraging and working with plant fibres’ learn how to identify, forage, and process plants.
11th July, Saturday. Theme – ‘asymmetrical “foraging” basket with handle’ A chance to build a basket in one day with Clare’s colourful own grown willow, for all skill levels. With Clare Shilvock, Warwickshire Willow: grower, basket maker, and basketry teacher.
There will be a change of venue for many of these courses, since as well as the away-day at North Aston Organics we will be hosting most of our workshops at the delightful Mill Street Arts creative space in Eynsham.
All dates and further information TBC. Additionally appearing in the next Newsletter and e-news.
*we are hoping to make some further changes to the website during 2026 involving an online booking system for courses and membership, alongside other digital updates.
Support for craftspeople who need it most.
