Vaselised are small, bronze, wire spiral tubes that were an important embellishment in Iron Age woven garments in Finland and the Baltic region (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania). Simple to make, they can be combined to form complex geometric designs or be used to enhance textiles as a structural and decorative border element.

In this course, we will learn how to make vaselised from thin wire using hand tools. Students will make free-standing ornaments for use in jewelry, braids, cords, keychains, or other decorative items. They will also learn how to incorporate vaselised into the fringe of a weaving project. Students are welcome to bring their own handmade items to embellish (anything with fringe), but ready-made textiles will also be available for practice. No experience necessary.

Physical ability note: Students will need to use both hands to crank a handle and hold wire, snip wire with jewelry snips, and thread spirals onto yarn. Projects can be done at a larger scale (larger spirals, thicker yarn) for those who have difficulty with small detail work. Good reading glasses or a craft magnifier are recommended for those who need assistance to see small details.

This course is open to students ages 14+. Youth ages 10-13 may register if accompanied by an adult. Adult/child pairs will complete two projects and pay two materials fees. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full-paying adult; call to register.

Required Tools

• None

Optional Tools

• Good reading glasses or a craft magnifier are recommended for those who need assistance to see small details.
• Students are welcome to bring items with fringe and unfinished weaving projects to ornament.
• A variety of yarns will be provided, but students are welcome to bring their own. Suitable materials include wool, hemp, linen, and horsehair.