How to Make Textile Coiled Baskets

Basket making is an ancient craft that continues to thrive throughout the world. I have taught basket weaving (coiling if we want to get technical) for years, and love nothing more than showing others the 'how to' of this wonderful craft.

I draw inspiration from many sources, and you will to once you start to create! I have learnt my skills from exploring and connecting with women who have shared their knowledge, mostly that has been passed down to them. After visiting South East Asia and spending time on a floating village, I learnt to work with the water hyacinth plant, to make baskets from materials I harvested and made myself. I lived on Arnhem Land, working with the Yolngu people who invited me to learn to weave using their incredible traditional techniques. I have been a member and active participant of Basket Makers of Victoria also, which connected me to many other women creating wonderful basketry work.

Over the years I have bought together various styles and developed my own designs and methods in my creative studio in Healesville, Victoria, Australia. Here I operate Craft School Oz, and continously work to share my knowledge through my workshops.

You can view my work on Instagram (@craftschooloz) and website (www.craftschooloz.com).

Something I always say to people is: Get making! You ARE creative!