During this two-day workshop participants will go through the full process of weaving a medium-sized willow basket starting with a round base and finishing with a handle. Weavers will walk away from the workshop with a completed willow basket, knowledge of willow harvesting, processing, and preparing for baskets of this style, some basic knife work as it relates to basketry, and a handful of basketry techniques. No previous basket weaving experience is required. If you have woven a basket before this workshop will be an excellent reminder of some basic weaving techniques. All participants will strengthen their understanding of the process and be inspired to continue weaving and working with their hands!
About the Instructor: Maureen is a basket weaver, farmer, and student midwife originally from Chicago. She began weaving baskets with willow around four years ago in Oregon’s Coast Range, creating an ever-growing reverence for the plant and the ancient practice of weaving. She continues to be humbled by the weaving and always inspired by the ways the willow brings her into closer relationship with people, places, and plants that surround her. Most recently, Maureen’s weaving led her to one of her ancestral homelands of Ireland where she studied with a seasoned weaver in Donegal, Ireland.
What to bring: a sharp knife – pocket knife or a little larger size blade, pruning shears for cutting willow (some tools will be available for sharing). The willow will already have been harvested and prepared before class. A light lunch will be provided, if you have special dietary restrictions please bring a sack lunch.
Cost & Registration: $50 fee due at registration to hold your place in the workshop. To register call us at 541-276-3954. The class is limited to 5 participants. Scholarships available to tribal members, contact us for details, or to reserve your spot at 541-276-3954.
