This is a two-day class for willow weavers with some experience. You will learn how to weave a large, round, and sturdy “stake and strand” basket, with raised handles. You will either work on or off a mould, depending on you experience level and design wishes.

This class is appropriate for many different skill levels, but we do ask that you have either taken a willow class previously or you have gained some weaving experience on your own.

Program for the weekend:
Less experienced weavers can expect to learn and practice techniques to make a traditional round stake and strand basket. This includes:
– 4×4 base slath
– twining 
– reinforced base weaving
– bi-staking
– 3 rod waling
– slewing
– 4 rod waling
– pass through handles
– rod or trac borders with follow ons.

Intermediate to advanced weavers can expect some modifications and additions to the regular program, including twining with nuanced technique.

Options & Dimensions: 
Woven on a form: Internal dimensions are 12″ width at base x 12″ high x 18″ wide at top. These baskets are great for large garden harvests/storage, or used as a small hamper. They are a very functional, stackable shape.

Woven without a form: Internal dimensions are 12″ width at base, variable height, 18″ max circumference at top. This is more of a choose your own adventure for folks who would like an opportunity for guided freeform weaving, and potentially a taller basket (time permitting).

Disclaimer: We will be covering a lot of ground over the weekend. Weaving with willow can be physically challenging and require moderate hand strength. Please consider how two days of repetitive twisting of your wrists, and pointed pressure with your fingers will leave you feeling. These are large baskets, using large willow – not a dainty project. If you have difficulty working with your hands for long periods of time or foresee having pain in your hands, wrists, or other body parts, please try a shorter, one-day basket class before committing to this class.

This course is suitable for adults.