A demonstration of weaving a large traditional English willow basket from start to finish

Charlie will make a traditional large English willow basket from start to finish, while pointing out the various techniques involved. At hand will be a selection of baskets exhibiting a variety of European willow techniques.

This demonstration doubles as a preparation for those who are interested in an upcoming two-day Willow Basket workshop at Fibershed Learning Center (December 3 & 4), so that attendees can gauge whether they are ready for the challenge of making a large willow basket.

The demonstration is limited to 18 attendees, and will take place at the beautiful Fibershed Learning Center on Black Mountain Ranch near Point Reyes Station, CA. (Address provided upon registration.) Weather permitting, we will be sitting outdoors in a shaded area. (You are welcome to bring your own outdoor folding chair or cushion, otherwise outdoor seating is on wooden folding chairs.) In the event of rain, we will be in the garage studio/classroom, which has plenty of ventilation. We will be in a cool environment, so attendees should dress warmly.

Please bring any personal snacks, lunch and beverages. Lunch is not included.

Enroll here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/360099757067

Fibershed Scholarship Program
Fibershed is offering two scholarships to most workshops; one scholarship if it’s a small class. If you would not otherwise be able to attend, and would like to be considered as a scholarship recipient, please answer a few brief questions on this Google Form. Responses will be reviewed by Learning Center staff and kept strictly confidential.

Charlie Kennard of San Anselmo is a long-time basket weaver and student of California Indian and other traditional basketry techniques of the world. He has taught for the Point Reyes Field Institute, East Bay Regional Parks Botanic Garden, Fibershed, the Laguna Center and in many schools and at teacher trainings. Tule boats made in his workshops can be seen at the Bay Model in Sausalito, Lake County Museum, and another is in the collection of the Oakland Museum. You can also visit a basketry plant garden Charlie has created at the Marin Art and Garden Center in Ross. Charlie is active in native habitat restoration in Marin, managing several projects for Friends of Corte Madera Creek Watershed.

Photos courtesy of Charlie Kennard