Basketry Plain and Simple

Participants will be introduced to basketry materials, their preparation, and a variety of weaving techniques. Using rattan, and some local natural materials, participants will craft at least one project during the workshop. You will learn different starting methods, shaping the basket, adding texture and colour, maybe a few embellishments, and perhaps explore different rims to complete your basket. While weaving you will learn a few tricks to make basket making a fun and rewarding experience.

MICHAEL PETERSON –BEAUX ARBRES BASKETRY

Discover the traditional craft of basket weaving. Michael makes functional baskets from natural materials such as grapevine, willow, sweet grass, rattan and twine – some foraged – and also use ceramics in his baskets. Michael describes what he does as “making practical baskets from different materials using different basketry techniques”. However, when you see his baskets, they are indeed works of art.

Michael began making baskets about 30 years ago after being intrigued by textile weaving from other countries. He took his first course from Ankaret Dean, a master basket maker. He continued his journey through basketry conferences and acknowledges the influence of Edith Clayton, a prominent Nova Scotian basket maker, and Ray Sark, a Mi’kmag Chief from Lennox Island, PEI.

He is always examining baskets to see how they were made, what materials were used and the age of the basket.

Inspired by the social history of basket making he notes that nature has provided the means to make them.

Michael reminds his students “if you can bend it, you can make a basket out of it”.

• Suitability:  Absolute Beginners, Beginners, Intermediate, Experts
• Finish in Class: Yes
• Supply: $30. paid to teacher at class
• Teacher provides: All materials and tools required
• Student to bring: Curiosity, and enthusiasm