Life of a Basket/Willow Weaver in Ireland

Tom Delaney, Basket Maker is the craftsman behind Ould Crafty. He is carrying on a tradition of basket making his grandfather, David Delaney, started a long time ago. It’s not all about baskets though; Tom makes willow domes and tunnels for gardens. You will see his work mainly featured close to the pond. He has also created boats made of willow called a coracle covered with animal hide which he has launched on the river Moy and in Bunratty Folk Park. Tom can often be found standing in a field in the middle of willow saplings, reeling off the various types of this versatile plant he feels a deep connection with. He loves working with willow. “It’s a natural material. It comes from the ground. It’s like working with wood and stone. It’s a connection to the land.”

The Claremorris man has built his business as a professional basketmaker. Everything he makes is fully handmade. All of his pieces are made from locally sourced willow in his native Mayo. His craft development is all about connecting with people of all ages and occupations and he delights in bringing his craft to a whole new generation. Tom has made several television appearances and is passionate about passing on his age-old skills to the next generation ensuring his craft stays alive and is cherished.

Admission fee to Bunratty Folk Park applies