Hannah
I have always been inspired by creativity and generally like to have a wee project on the go at all times – be it jewellery making, crocheting or making potions at home. Without crafts, I am honestly not sure what I would do with myself. I could never have dreamed that one day I would be able to call myself a basket weaver!
The opportunity with Naturally Useful popped up this summer, before that point I had never considered it a possibility but had always been so in awe of the wonders that came out of the Naturally Useful barn. In December, prior to getting this job, I was gifted one of Karen’s beautiful baskets for my birthday and I think I have used it almost every day since. It is still a little crazy to me that I am now doing this as a job as I have always imagined crafts to be something that you do after work...but now I am working and crafting all at the same time!
Basket weaving brings calm to my brain where all I need to and all I can think of is what is right in front of me, and in the busy modern world that we live in today I honestly couldn’t ask for anything better. Working with willow is such a joy, particularly in the Naturally Useful barn as the vast majority of willow is grown on the farm. Each week is a surprise as I have no idea what colours and thicknesses will be waiting for me under the wee blankets. It enhances the creativity as you may make the same style of basket as the prior week, but each has its own individuality and that is what is so special. Alongside that, Karen’s style of teaching encourages confidence and uniqueness, allowing each weaver to bring their own personality and vision into each basket with very few limitations. I feel so privileged to be able to craft for a living and to be surrounded by such inspirational crafty people.