The bool is the hazel rim of an oak basket. The rod is shaved on one side, steamed in the top of the swill boiler, and then bent around a former while it is very hot. Its important that the former is solid wood to take the heat and pressure of this task. This oval bool dictates the look of the whole basket so its important to start with a great shape.

The blacksmith made bracket holds the end of the bool so you can support the rod with both hands as you bend it around.

Matching basket handles can be made by bending a U shape around one end of the former.

I’m really pleased to be working with a local furniture maker to provide these formers. The larch comes from local woodlands and is part of essential work to prevent the spread of disease, it is milled in a co-operative sawmill and made all within the South Lakes.