Dimitri working with willow

About

My story and my passion

Dimitri Bolzonella, willow basket weaver

Hello, I'm Dimitri

A keen handyman since childhood, basket weaving came into my life following a workplace accident and quickly became an obvious choice for a career change.

A graduate of the École Nationale d'Osiériculture et de Vannerie de Fayl-Billot, in Haute-Marne, since 2023, I am proud to be one of the craftspeople keeping these somewhat forgotten, time-honoured trades alive.

"Returning to natural, sustainable objects is, to me, essential."

I also have a genuine desire to share this craft through introductory basket-weaving workshops , as well as more advanced sessions for those wishing to deepen their skills.

— Ready, steady, weave!

Get in touch
Dimitri's red willow field in Saint-Germain-du-Bois

Willow, from field to finished piece

The willow I work with grows in my own fields. I cultivate it, cut it to the right length, and weave it entirely by hand — from start to finish, nothing comes from a factory.

It is a remarkably adaptable plant: it lends itself to almost any shape, and with around 150 different varieties it offers an exceptionally wide range of natural colours.

~150 willow varieties
100% handmade
2023 Fayl-Billot graduate

How I work

1

Growing

The willow grows in my own fields. I look after its health and strength throughout the season.

2

Cutting

I cut each rod to the right length for the project. Every piece starts with a precise choice of material.

3

Weaving

Every rod is woven by hand. This is the longest — and most demanding — step, the one that gives the piece its shape.

4

Finishing

The final touches are added by hand to perfect the creation before it leaves for you.

Dimitri's willow field

Learn basket weaving

All available dates are listed on the dedicated workshops page — updated as soon as a date is confirmed.

  • Introduction to basket weaving
  • Advanced sessions for those wishing to deepen their skills
  • Price varies depending on duration and style chosen
  • Dates and locations to be confirmed soon
See workshop dates

Want to know more?

Discover my creations in the gallery or come and meet me at a local market.