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. 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.