Tuesday evenings, 6:30-8:00 pm PST
3 virtual sessions: Mar 29, Apr 5, April 12
We will be making willow tension trays, a simple project that can be used as a serving platter, hot plate, wall hanging or drying rack. This is a great introduction to basketry as it employs techniques that can be applied to a variety of materials and requires very few tools. We will cover hoop-making and a basic weave, then learn more advanced techniques and embellishments. We will discuss wild-harvesting, cultivating willow, storage and preparation of materials. This project is fun and accessible to weavers of all ages and experience levels!
Depending on your weaving speed and materials you may complete multiple trays throughout the three sessions, or complete one over the three sessions.
Workshop fee does not include materials — lower mainland residents will have an opportunity to purchase a willow material bundle from EartHand for $20 which will cover the main projects outlined. Winlaw/Nelson area participants will be able to purchase a similar willow bundle directly from Gwen for $20 before the first session. For those wanting to provide their own materials a list will be emailed one week prior to class start.
Tools required: garden shears/clippers.
As a virtual series, Zoom and camera capability is required to participate.
Artist Bio:
Gwen has been enthralled with willow since she wove her first basket in 2010. During an apprenticeship with a master weaver on Hornby Island, BC, she learned the foundations of willow basketry and has expanded her craft alongside accomplished weavers in Canada, the U.S. and England. She established a willow farm in 2019, growing over 20 varieties of basketry willow that are coppiced annually. She teaches popular basketry workshops on her homestead in Winlaw, BC, and sells her wares at local markets. As a homesteader and naturalist, Gwen finds the process of growing and working with willow deeply nourishing and is keen to pass on the art and craft of basketry to all those interested in learning.
This is a paid guild with tiered pay-what-you-can tickets:
$68 – Sponsored Placement (SP)
$85 – Volunteer Supported (VS)
$95 – Community Patron (CP)
Subsidized spaces in this program are available thanks to the generous donations of EartHand community members. For more information about our pricing scale see this blog post.