Making a willow Loom Basket and Wool Gathering Basket with Bonnie Gale

Bonnie Gale will teach two willow baskets of interest to weavers on the weekend of October 21-22, 2023. The two baskets are a Crealagh (Scottish wool gathering basket) and a Loom basket.
 
The Crealagh is a unique large Scottish wool gathering basket, traditionally used for gathering scraps of sheep wool from fields and fences. Today, it can be used for the same purposes or storing carded wool.  Pre-carved, formed and dried oval hoops are provided for each student. The two hoops are attached with God’s eye weaving. Ribs are then inserted as the weaving progresses from each end. A rectangular hole is left in the top for insertion and removal of fleece. The basket measures 19 inches by 12 inches and is made of unpeeled willow.
 
The Loom Basket is made of peeled buff willow with a small rectangular base (4 inches by 6 inches). A screwblock is loaned for weaving the small rectangular base. The sides of the basket are woven in French randing and waling.  A rectangular border completes the basket. Two holes are designed in the back of the basket so that it can be attached to the vertical timbers of the loom.  The top of the basket measures 9 inches by 7 inches with a height of 8 inches.
 
There is a separate preparation and materials fee for each basket, payable to the instructor. The fee for the Loom basket is $65. The fee for the Crealagh is $75.