cat beaumont

Cat Beaumont is an artisan basket maker who has been working with willow since 1996.

Her love and fascination for the traditional craft of basket making began following a weekend course. Wanting to develop this newly learnt craft she sought out a second generation basket maker, Jack West who had been a professional basket maker for 60 years.

Under his direction Cat was able to learn many traditional techniques whilst also creating new and contemporary designs. She’s inspired to continue the old traditions whilst experimenting with new ideas, making not only functional but also sculptural baskets using a variety of willows.

Cat’s baskets have been sent all over the world, with a varied and mixed clientele. Commissions include a variety of styles of replica baskets for The Viking Museum, York , wicker seats for Victorian funfair swing boats and medieval re-enactments as well as for kitchen designers, shops, cabinet makers and sculptural metal workers.

Members since 2007

Courses

Loving the versatility of the medium of willow Cat has experimented with living willow ‘fedges’ and plant supports for creating sculptural additions to gardens for supporting sweet peas, and border edgings to keep plants from spilling onto lawns.

Cat has been employed to run basket making workshops by various organisations. She has also run courses teaching children .This is a great opportunity for her to share her love of the craft and she enjoys passing these ancient skills on. One of the ever fascinating qualities of willow weaving for Cat is that starting with a pile of raw materials (sticks!) laying there next to you and using weaving and basket making techniques and your imagination, you can make something beautiful and functional appear in front of you.

Cta web site full of beautiful pictures of her work

www.catbeaumont.co.uk