Reviews

What people say after a basket workshop with me. I'm a Platinum-rated tutor on Craft Courses, with over 100 reviews there.

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Students’ Choice Award, Platinum, Craft Courses. Read all my reviews on craft courses

“I can’t recommend this course highly enough. Marianne is so passionate about her craft, it is impossible not to feel inspired. She shares her knowledge, personal story and skills with generosity. She encouraged us to be inspired by the nature around us and by the beautiful autumn day. I did the course with my teenage nephew and she made an extra effort with him to guide him and make him feel supported which was really special. The materials we used were first class and the refreshments (fancy chocolate cake and delicious Dutch cake) were generous.”

Barbara, Beginners day, Cowshed Workshop, Tenterden - Craft Courses, October 2026 Read on Craft Courses

What My Students Say: From first-time weavers to those who keep coming back

  • Willow basket weaving demonstration on the grass at an outdoor event

    Alison - Beginners/Improvers day, King John's Nursery, Etchingham

    “Working outdoors, under an oak tree, I managed to make (with Marianne's help and guidance) a very beautiful basket that I am immensely proud of. I'm looking forward to using and enjoying it for many years to come.”

    Craft Courses, June 2026

  • Two students holding the willow baskets they made

    Imke - Beginners/Improvers day, Paddock Art Studios, Lewes

    “I had the most marvellous day! Marianne is a brilliant teacher—she guided us through the whole process with calmness, humour, and a wealth of knowledge. Always encouraging and ready with a helpful hand when needed, she ensured that each and every one of us went home holding a beautiful basket we’d made ourselves. I can highly recommend this course and will definitely be back!”

    Craft Courses, December 2025

  • Sabi weaving the base of her first willow basket at a beginners workshop in Lewes

    Sabi - Beginners day, Lewes

    “Marianne's teaching style is calm, clear, and sprinkled with just the right amount of humour. I arrived a complete beginner and left proudly clutching a beautiful willow basket… Highly recommend, just be warned, you might get hooked!”

    Google review, March 2026

  • Angela preparing willow at the Cowshed Workshop, Tenterden

    Angela - Beginners/Improvers day, Cowshed Workshop, Tenterden

    “I thoroughly enjoyed making my first ever willow basket with Marianne… Marianne had time for all her pupils… Her knowledge of basket making and the use and types of locally grown willow was very impressive. My daughter and I ended the day with a great deal of insight into the craft of basketry.”

    Craft Courses, May 2026

  • Daisy weaving the sides of a willow basket at Paddock Art Studios, Lewes

    Daisy - Beginners/Improvers day, Paddock Art Studios, Lewes

    “It was a day so well spent; I came out with a love for a new craft that I'm excited to continue to learn. I will definitely come back to spend more time with Marianne, who was so patient and supportive through the whole process.”

    Craft Courses, October 2026

  • Carrie weaving a willow basket at the Cowshed Workshop, Tenterden

    Carrie - Plant supports (obelisk and cloche), Cowshed Workshop, Tenterden

    “I've now attended two willow workshops with Marianne and I'm hooked. My first course was at Seedy Sunday in Lewes and I was warmly welcomed and encouraged to weave away with helpful guidance… All levels of weavers attend and the space is held wonderfully by Marianne.”

    Craft Courses, April 2026

  • Three students with the willow cloches they made at the

    Melinda - Plant supports (obelisk and cloche), Cowshed Workshop, Tenterden

    “Spent another wonderful day at the Cowshed with Marianne making a cloche and obelisk. She is so inspiring and always patient and encouraging… You won't regret it and you may become addicted!”

    Craft Courses, May 2026

  • Two students holding the willow baskets they made

    Myriam - Foraging basket, Improvers day, King John's Nursery, Etchingham

    “I never thought I would be able to produce an entire basket in a day. Back home my family was super impressed. I slept extremely well that night and felt grounded the next morning in such a pleasant way, which I hadn't been for a while.”

    Craft Courses, December 2025

Come Weave with Me

Beginners days, improvers courses and private sessions in Kent and East Sussex.