Join Us
Northumbria Basketry Group (NBG) was founded in early 2007 by a small but enthusiastic group who attended a beginners’ basketry class in Rothbury tutored by Liz Balfour. The group’s aim is to promote, encourage and develop all aspects of basketmaking, chair seating and allied crafts in the Northumbria region.
Between 2009 and 2012 significant European LEADER funding was obtained which enabled the group to deliver beginners’ and advanced basketry courses across the county, purchase quality tools to use at these courses, research the history of local baskets, and establish and maintain a large willow plot to provide the group with locally grown materials. These grants required match funding provided by the group in the form of volunteer hours.
As a result of our courses and other work promoting basketry as a craft, several ‘self-help’ groups now meet regularly in locations across the region to make baskets in all forms. Members also attend local events to demonstrate basketmaking and associated crafts and promote the NBG. More details about these groups can be found elsewhere on this site, as can information about the wide-ranging scope of our activities.
Our members come from as far apart as Yorkshire and Scotland and all places in between. Some make their living working with willow whilst others simply enjoy 'having a go' from time to time meaning we have a dynamic mix of members.
Northumbria Basketry Group is for anyone who is interested in any aspect of basketry, whatever their level of skill or knowledge. Our membership subscription is just £10 a year and offers the following benefits:
- Priority booking for courses/workshops
- Discounted prices on willow
- Opportunities for learning how to grow willow
- A members section on the website where you can showcase your skills/work
- Use of our borrowing library of basketry-related books
If you want to know more about basket making or chairseating, the Basketmakers' Association or the Scottish Basketmakers' Circle will be of interest.
Application Form
Please fill in the below form to start the application process.
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