Are you or somebody in your life expecting a new baby? Come weave an heirloom wicker bassinet that is sure to be passed down for generations to come. No baby in your life? The basket also makes a wonderful cradle for a doll for an older child or toddler and can be custom made to fit a specific size.
This 2-day class is structured to be very small, with lots of hands-on assistance from Michael Marie. We’ll spend the first day creating wooden bases for our bassinet that we will then begin to weave willow into and form the body of the bassinet. We’ll proceed with building up our basket using different weaves common in stake and strand basketry, including three rod wale, French rand, zig zag, built-in handles, and a folded down border. We’ll also chat about different local and sustainable ways that you can add bedding to your basket, including tanning your own animal hide through or purchasing one through a talented local artisan tanner right here in Southeast Michigan!
No weaving experience is required for this class (though it always helps!) and the small class size will ensure your baby basket will be a work of art. Each participant is also welcome to bring up to one helper/loved one to assist with weaving, if desired.
Where: Hickory Nut Farmstead in Dexter, MI (address provided on registration)
We’ll take a lunch break each day, so consider bringing along a sack lunch to eat in the workshop. A full kitchen (fridge, stove, sink, & microwave) are on hand in the studio. Light snacks and beverages will also be provided.
The workshop will be held at our farm in Dexter, Michigan. Although there is a flight of stairs, it can be easily accessed by an automated (and honestly rather fun) stairlift. The bathroom and entry way are also equipped with handrails. The instructor reserves the right to cancel (for a full refund) for illness, emergency, or if an inadequate number of participants register.
