When European immigrants came to North America, they brought with them a host of crafts and skills necessary for survival in their new world. The basketry tradition known as ‘stake & strand’ was one such craft, as baskets were used to store nearly everything around the homestead. Willow yields to strong hands, giving beautiful results, and class members will make a sturdy and functional round basket with a handle using a variety of weaves. Students will learn the techniques behind the terms slath, twining, 3-rod wale, French randing, and border weaves. Class discussions will cover willow cultivation and harvest, traditions, and lore. The class will assure a new appreciation for the art and craft of basketry and open a door to the amazing world of willow. Baskets are a cross between whittling, carpentry, weaving, and sculpture. Lee & Lindsay see willow as the ultimate renewable resource and have found abundant uses for it in their home and gardens.

Required Tools

• All required tools will be provided.

Optional Tools

• Utility knife/box cutter or carving knife
• Sturdy craft scissors or hand pruner/secateurs
• Bodkin or thick shafted awl
• Small side cutter
• Apron

This course will be part of Basket Week 2021! Plan to arrive early for the Basket Gathering on Friday, October 8 for demonstrations, talks and community gatherings.