Willow Basket Making with Cottage Courses

This 2 day workshop is designed to immerse you in the fundamentals of stake-and-strand willow weaving. Led by basketmaker Renee Baumann, we’ll learn how to create a classic round base and build a medium-to-large basket, perfect for heavy-duty gathering, kindling, or storage.

With a basket of this size, you’ll have the opportunity to try several side weaves, including waling, randing, and zig-zag weaving. You’ll also learn how to use traditional basketry tools such as snippers, a bodkin, a knife, and a rapping iron. Participants will have the option to create inset handles or add leather handles (available for purchase).

Willow weaving is a fun and dynamic skill, but it can also be quite physical. Working with this material requires moderate hand and arm strength. Expect to spend two full days fully immersed in learning and practicing this craft. Lunch will be provided each day. Materials fee is included in the price of the workshop.