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Instructors

Emily Derke

Grand Marais, MN
North House Folk School photo of instructor, Emily Derke

Emily spends much of her time working to create what she needs in life. This includes making baskets, harvesting and cooking wild foods, sewing, making leather and more. Emily lives in northern Minnesota and is continually getting to know the land around her through creating useful items. The search for knowledge and experience has brought her from her home in Minnesota to both the east and west coasts to learn from many experienced teachers over the years.

Emily was an Artisan in Residence in North House's Artisan Development Program (Cohort IV) where she focused on her basketry practice and other crafts.

Visit Emily Derke's Website

Current Courses Offered by Emily Derke

Teaser image for Willow Basketry

Willow Basketry

Willow has been a prized basketmaking material for centuries, and after this class, you'll know…
Fri, Feb 6th, 2026  –  Sun, Feb 8th, 2026
Day 1: 4-7 pm; Days 2-3: 9am-5pm
Instructor: Emily Derke
Teaser image for Woven Birch Bark Basketry

Woven Birch Bark Basketry

Birch bark holds a multitude of uses, and has been widely used across the world wherever birch trees…
Sat, Jan 10th, 2026  –  Sun, Jan 11th, 2026
9am-5pm each day
Instructor: Emily Derke

Past Courses Offered by Emily Derke

Bark Tanned Sheep Hides

Basket Making Sampler

Basketry Basics: Harvest & Weaving with Cattails Online Course

Boreal Basketry Immersion

Boreal Basketry: All About Birch Webinar

Cordage Craft!

North Woods Basketry Adventure: From Harvest to Basket

Northwoods Carrying Basket

Three Baskets in Two Days

Weave a Willow Serving Tray

Willow Basketry

Willow Plant Supports for the Garden

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