Wicker is an art! A history of ancestral know-how and contemporary creativity

In this unique village, the cradle of French vannerie, craftsmen passionately transform this noble material into veritable works of art, from the most traditional to the most daring. Come and meet these masters of weaving who, in their sometimes troglodytic workshops, perpetuate a craft of excellence while constantly reinventing their art.

Welcome to the wicker capital of France

Just 6km from Azay-le-Rideau, discover the largest production centre for vannerie in France. Around 40 wickerworkers and 20 or so wickerworkers bring this authentic village to life, a veritable capital of wickerwork.

Go to the Cultural space wickerwork to understand the secrets of this ancestral craft. The interpretation trail will then guide you through the alleyways, where workshops transform different varieties of willow into decorative objects and exceptional baskets.

The Coopérative, like an Ali Baba’s cave, brings together the creations of local artisans, includingMarie-Hélène Métézeau, Meilleure Ouvrière de France. Admire the diversity of works, from the most traditional to the most contemporary.

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Learn more about The art of weaving

Book your place on a discovery course with the master craftsmen of Villaines-les-Rochers. In their workshops, learn the age-old gestures that transform soft strands into unique creations. The courses are suitable for all levels, from first steps to advanced techniques.

Let yourself be guided by passionate professionals who will pass on their secrets during personalised sessions. In just a few hours, you’ll master the basics of braiding and leave with your first creation. For a more in-depth experience, opt for multi-day courses where you’ll discover all the subtleties of this exceptional craft.

Take part in the creative effervescence that enlivens the streets of Villaines-les-Rochers. The village vibrates to the rhythm of cultural events organised throughout the year: artists’ night markets, open-air demonstrations, wicker festivals, etc.

Find out more

Around Villaines-les-Rochers

Meet the basket makers at work

Push open the door to the workshops where time seems to stand still. In these spaces, sometimes carved out of the tufa rock, watch the precise movements of the basket-makers as they bring the wicker to life. Watch their expert hands select the strands, dip them in warm water to soften them, then weave them together with fascinating dexterity.

Take the time to chat with these enthusiasts who willingly share their secrets. In the village of Villaines, each workshop reveals a specific approach: some perpetuate ancestral techniques while others innovate with bold contemporary creations. The basket-makers reveal the stages of manufacture, from the choice of materials to the meticulous finishing touches for which their art is renowned.

Wicker in all its forms

From traditional baskets to contemporary sculptures, wicker reveals its remarkable versatility at Villaines-les-Rochers. Admire the bold creations of craftsmen: designer furniture, poetic lighting, monumental art installations.

Wicker also invites itself into your outdoor spaces with woven living hedges and plant pergolas that evolve with the seasons. Basket-makers even fashion delicate jewellery and refined fashion accessories, proof that this natural fibre knows how to reinvent itself with elegance.

In the village gardens, discover the living wicker structures that design spectacular plant architecture, between flowering arches and enchanted huts. A local raw material that metamorphoses before your very eyes into sustainable, eco-friendly works of art.

In a nutshell

French capital of basketry

Forty basket makers keep this unique craft alive near Azay-le-Rideau.

Craft between tradition and modernity

Wicker can be transformed into both traditional objects and contemporary creations.

Interactive discovery of basketry

Courses, workshops and visits give you the chance to explore this exceptional craft.

A village where crafts come to life

In this warm atmosphere, the boutique-workshops welcome you for moments of sharing around weaving. Artisans open their doors on open days, while the Maison des Savoir-Faire offers temporary exhibitions highlighting the most innovative creations.

As you wander through the narrow streets, be surprised by the artistic installations that adorn the facades and gardens, testifying to the vitality of this village where wicker is much more than a craft: it’s a constantly renewed source of inspiration.