I am directly descended from three generations of Eatherden basketmakers who lived and worked in the East Sussex village of Beckley during the nineteenth century.
It was this family discovery that ignited my interest in the ancient craft of basketmaking and eventually led to a two-year period of study at London’s City Lit college in Covent Garden where I was the recipient of the Barbara Maynard Cup in 2018, awarded by The Basketmakers’ Association. Prior to that I was introduced to basketmaking by Mary Butcher through courses at West Dean College, and have also learnt since with Eddie Glew, Annemarie O’Sullivan, Jenny Crisp, Sue Kirk, Catherine Beaumont and Dominic Parrette.
I now grow and harvest my own willow close to my home in the South Downs National Park, and use this alongside willow from the Somerset Levels. Handles are sourced from a local hazel coppice at West Dean or from driftwood found on the shores of Thorney Island.
I aim to make baskets that are both beautiful and functional, using a blend of different willows and weaves. They have a contemporary feel but pay homage to the traditions of my ancestors.
I have been pleased to support various charities through my making and workshops, including HASAG, Pancreatic Cancer UK, Rowans Hospice, DEC Ukraine, Parkinsons UK, and Papyrus, raising nearly £6,000 in the last 5 years.
I also sell baskets on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/SouthDownsBaskets
I am a member of The Basketmakers’ Association and a qualified teacher.
Jill Eatherden