Jenny Crisp Large Oval Tray JC2318

Jenny Crisp – Basket Maker and Willow Grower

Jenny Crisp has been a basket maker and willow grower for almost 40 years and is one of the most respected willow weavers and craftswomen working in the UK today. Her highly collectable pieces can be found in the collection of the V&A Museum.

Jenny’s commitment to the integrity of the baskets that she makes extends into the careful growing and harvesting of the willow that she uses for her baskets – much of which is grown and harvested here in Herefordshire. Jenny’s approach is innovative whilst maintaining the heritage of her craft, remaining true to the inherent nature of her indigenous materials.

With funding from the Crafts Council in the 1980s, Jenny spent an inspirational and life changing year as apprentice to expert basket maker and willow weaver, David Drew.  Here, Jenny’s love of nature and the outdoors was further strengthened and a greater awareness and affection for this ancient and cultural craft was forged.

“To master the use of willow you must first understand its characteristics and qualities. A perfect basket depends on the makers empathy with the material and tools, on repetition and experience combined with the intention in the makers mind.”  Jenny Crisp