This willow gathering basket is a classic project with a brand new look--willow bark on the sides! After weaving a paired willow base, the baskets are staked up and waled as a traditional stake and strand willow basket. Then prepared willow bark weavers are secured in place and woven as a double layer to create a beautiful texture for the sides. The weaving is finished with more waling and a 5-rod willow border. Details of how to securely attach the cross handle will be addressed as we weave the sides, making this a sturdy useful basket. This basket will be woven using willow from Dunbar Gardens in NW Washington, and will measure 14” in diameter and 8” tall, plus handle. Hand strength is required when working with willow.

Required Tools

• Side cutters or secateurs (your best garden clippers)
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Weight (plastic bag of rocks or one large rock will work, or a can of beans)

Optional Tools

• If you have a knife for basketmaking bring it along but it’s not essential for this basket
• Willow awl
• Rapping iron

This course is part of Basket Week 2026. Plan to stay a day longer for the Gathering Day on Friday, October 9, which features demonstrations, speakers, and community gatherings offered as a benefit to students enrolled in Basket Week coursework. Full schedule available online in Summer 2026.