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My name is Eddie Glew and I run Blithfield Willowcrafts, hand crafting from English willow. My base is in the heart of staffordshire overlooking Blithfield Reservoir.
The business was started by my father who taught me the traditional techniques I use today. I love to work with many other Master Basket makers to expand my knowledge further.
Willow from Staffordshire and Somerset
The Willow I use is coppiced from Staffordshire along with willow grown in Somerset. This is used to create a diverse selection of willow items ranging from traditional baskets to Gorilla Sculptures!
I exhibit my work at shows, demonstrations and courses throughout the country. And I have been featured on Kirsty’s Vintage Home and Kirsty’s Handmade Home.
I feel extremely privileged to be able to continue the traditional techniques of Basket making and very proud to follow in my Fathers footsteps.
My aim is to promote willow Basket making, the most primitive of all the crafts, with my work, courses and demonstrations. It is hugely satisfying to plant a willow cutting, watch it grow then weave it into a useful vessel to be used for years to come. This is a practical enjoyable skill, accessible to all ages, creating durable and beautiful willow products.
My courses
I hold one or two day courses for beginners, intermediates and advanced basket makers.
I also provide private tuition and vocational courses if you wish to take basket making to the next level.
The courses start at 9:30 until 16:30 – tools, tea, coffee and posh biscuits will be provided, please bring a packed lunch.
How to weave a willow piglet with Blithfield Willowcrafts
If you’d like to have a go at weaving a willow piglet, read our blog post all about the creative day we spent with Eddie. We share easy step by steps to how we created this sweet willow piglet for the garden. It was surprisingly simple and so, so relaxing. If you’re looking for more mindful ways to spend your time, working with willow has got to be right up there!
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