Instructor: Jennifer Zurick
Materials Fee: $190
This class will introduce weavers to native black willow bark, a very strong, flexible and beautiful fiber uncommonly used for basketry. Students will work with the inner bark, weaving spokes on the diagonal split from a simple “pinwheel” constructed base. The fineness of the weave students wish to attain will be based on individual choice and may be creatively designed as the basket progresses. A simple rim band with lashing or woven rim technique will complete the basket and cordage may be spun into a handle or applied for decorative embellishment. Hand strength is desirable.
In this workshop, students will learn an interesting and simply constructed “pinwheel” base, as well as plain and twill bias weaving technique and cordage making. Students will cut spokes to desired width/fineness from the woven, wide bark base and will be guided in design decisions. Learning to work with this lovely fiber — to cut, refine and manipulate it — while enjoying the creative basket construction process will be the goals of this class. Bark harvesting will be discussed.
Materials Fee: $190
Materials included in materials fee:
- Cut and cleaned willow bark
Tools that will be provided for you:
- Sharp razor knives for cutting and refining spokes will be provided
Tools you will need to bring:
- Basketry scissors
- Awl
- Small stainless steel or plastic clamps (metal will stain the bark)
- Spray bottle
- Small soaking vessel
- Hemostat type tool
- Apron
- Small hand towel