Beginners Basket Making Series:
Rib Style Harvest Basket
April 23rd 4-8pm AND April 24th 9am-5pm
Weaving a willow basket is a rich experience. Not only do you make a useful product with your own hands, but you connect to nature and the folkways of many cultures. Added bonus: Some of the willow we will use is from the first year’s harvest from the willow patch at the Nature Center’s Sugar Grove Farm!
In this series of classes, students will learn the basics of three basketry styles. We will begin with rib style, creating a harvest basket sized for gathering flowers or vegetables from your garden. Next, we will weave a stake and strand style bread basket, and students can have the option of making self-handles or a bow handle. Finally, we will try our hands at the Zarzo style, which uses tension more than weaving and is suitable for lightweight work.
Sign up for all three to learn your favorite form, or try just one. Class size will be limited to six participants due to COVID precautions and to ensure that the teacher to student ration stays small. Classes will be held outside, but in the case of inclement weather, we will move inside the Penningroth barn with tables distanced and masks required. Participants do not need to have any previous basket making experience, but you must have good hand, wrist and fingers strength and patience.
Please read carefully!
Class Dates/Times: Friday, April 23rd 4-8pm AND Saturday, April 24th 9am-5pm
Location: 6665 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403. Note: We will work on the deck or indoors (distanced at tables) in the event of rain.
Supplies: Please bring a sack lunch (day 2) and your own beverage, sharp hand pruners, a sharp carving knife, measuring tape, old bath towel for your lap, and an old sheet to wrap your willow.
Cost*: $100
*Includes the April class only. Click here to register for the other basket workshops (there are three in total).
Registration cutoff: Friday, April 9th