Square Willow Basket – Driftless Folk School

In this two-day class, you will learn to weave a traditional Western European “square base” willow basket using simple tools and techniques that are thousands of years old. Square willow baskets are aesthetically pleasing and an excellent choice for sturdy, natural, long lasting storage containers, and were commonly used for such throughout Europe in the pre-industrial eras.

Using freshly-cut, Driftless-grown, German basket willow, students will weave a basket start to finish while learning about this durable and versatile material. Beginning with an under-over square or rectangular framed base, you learn the slype and scallop method to raise the walls of the basket, and use at least two different weaves to add to the wefts. The basket ends with a rod woven border and a ‘foot’ to ensure longevity.

This is considered to be an intermediate level basketry class — some prior experience with basket making and specifically willow work is recommended.

Dates: Saturday, March 5 and Sunday, March 6, 2022
Registration Deadline: 2/23/22
Times: 9AM – 4:30PM each day
Ages: Adults only
Location: The Commons
Materials Fee: $40

Sliding Scale Course Fees:
Supporter: $220
Sustainer: $170
Supported: $120