Make a Beautiful Beginner Round Willow Basket - Saturday, July 6

DATE & TIME

Saturday, July 6, 2024
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (please arrive and be settled by 8:45am; there will be a one hour lunch break)

LOCATION

Country Cut Flowers
970 Miller's Sideroad
Newmarket, ON L3Y 4V9 

Join Johnny Suderman at Country Cut Flowers in this one day willow basketry class where we will be weaving beautiful round baskets! This class is open to experienced, and beginner weavers alike. Tools will be provided.

This is a one day beginner level class for adults who would like to learn about the fundamentals of stake and strand basketry. (See disclaimer at bottom)

The small round basket will allow participants the opportunity to get a feel for basketry willow, and to learn many techniques that are fundamental to making a strong, durable and beautiful basket. You will learn round bases, pairing, three rod wale, and border techniques.

Small round baskets, 7” diameter, are the focus of this day, but the techniques that will be taught are applicable to many styles of baskets. In this class you will be using cultivated basketry willows grown in Ontario by Lakeshore Willows, however the techniques can also be used with wild willow, dogwood, and other found woody materials that have the same long, flexible characteristics.

The willow we are weaving with has been grown here in Ontario, sustainably harvested from coppice stools in the wintertime. The willow shoots regrow from the same stump each season, providing fresh material for basketry and building projects. Harvesting traditions of this sort date back to the neolithic period and so by practicing this craft we are engaging with ancient traditions, and helping to keep them alive.

Johnny is a basket maker, willow grower, handcrafter, gardener and settler. Descendant of English and German Mennonite ancestors, he is currently living his best stick life in Paris, Ontario. You can learn more about Johnny here: www.instagram.com/thevillage maker

This course is suitable for ages 16+

You'll have the chance to pick a small posey of flowers from the early summer flower gardens.

We will have light snacks and drinks, but you will need to bring lunch. You're also welcome to pop into Newmarket to grab your lunch.

We would love to see you here!

No refunds or pets. Service animals are welcome. If you can't make it to the event after purchasing a ticket, you are welcome to transfer your ticket to someone else.

Of note, the group pictures above are from a workshop Johnny taught elsewhere.

DISCLAIMER: When we work with willow we are essentially braiding with wood. Wood is a dense material. Please consider how a day of repetitive twisting of your wrists, and pointed pressure with your fingers will leave you feeling at the end of the day. Please consider that if you have difficulty working with your hands for long periods of time that this class may not be right for you.