A Basket Maker's Journey

I first met Max when I signed up for one of his basket weaving courses back in March and was immediately drawn to his teaching style. It was so clear, encouraging and simply fun. By the end of that session I could hardly believe I’d made a beautiful bird feeder out of some twigs!In this episode, Max shares how he discovered basketry, describing that first moment working with willow as feeling like something “in his DNA”. We wandered through the ancient roots of this craft and its inherent sustainability. Max explains how people traditionally worked with whatever grew around them and offers practical tips on testing plants for their flexibility.He also opens up about his creative process and the rhythm of his days working from a yurt workshop. We also touch on the deeper themes of foraging, biodiversity and our relationship with the natural world. Talking with Max reminded me that craft connects us to both our heritage and the landscape around us. Creativity can really grow from the simplest most instinctive beginnings. “I was taking aback when I started weaving by how enjoyable it is!”I found myself reflecting on this conversation with Max long after we finished recording. I wonder what will stay with you? Please let me know. If you wish to get in touch with Max, sign up to his newsletter and maybe book a workshop with him, here are his details:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxjohnson_basketry?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Website: https://maxjohnsonbasketry.co.ukAs always, thank you for listening to the podcast.I would love to know what you’re taking away from this episode.If you are a crafter in Scotland and would like to be a guest on this podcast, then please complete this short form - https://form.typeform.com/to/kUUWIPfRTo stay in touch and find out about upcoming guests then visit me over on Instagram and follow along - https://www.instagram.com/devinetoursofscotland/In case this inspires you not only to be more creative but also plan a creative holiday in Scotland and would like to find out more about craft days out or tours, then use the contact form via my website to get in touch:https://devinetoursofscotland.co.uk This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit devinetoursofscotland.substack.com