Oak Swill Basket

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Oak swill baskets are traditionally made in the Lake District and for centuries were part of a large coppice industry in the oak woods of the Furness Fells. They are strong, durabl e, oval baskets made by hand weaving thin strips of coppiced oak around a hazel rim. Historically, oak swills were used for 'coaling' steam ships or in mines, mills and ironworks. In agricultural settings they were used for sowing, harvesting root crops and feeding animals. Domestically they were useful for laundry, logs, gardening and even as cradles. After careful preparation of the wood, each basket then takes over six hours of expert weaving and forming. Show more