Basket Weaving: Beginning and Beyond
Description: Participants will learn the fundamentals for weaving a twined basket by creating a set of two or three bowls. Demonstrations will discuss topics such as how to start and finish a basket, how to modify the basket’s shape, as well as how to add patterned designs. Further art discussions will include topics such as color theory, proportions, and pattern generation. Initial projects will be smaller in scale so that they can be used as references for later projects.
While the majority of the supplies will be provided, participants are encouraged to bring a variety of cotton or wool yarn for weaving patterns into their baskets. Participants who choose to return to take the workshop again will learn more intermediate and advanced techniques. The projects that they make can be personalized to their interests. Some of the techniques and project options for returning participants include weaving a lidded jar/box, weaving a bag, adding a handle, as well as weaving a pattern with three colors.
All skill levels are welcome.
Workshops are located on the Saint Meinrad campus. Between weaving sessions, participants can spend time either: praying with the monks, walking the various trails, or visiting the art gallery in the campus library. Basket weaving has a history associated with western monasticism. While working with one’s hands, the process lends itself to contemplation. Taking a basket weaving workshop will provide some technical skills for learning a new craft, but it is also a way to engage with the rich history and spirit that is present at Saint Meinrad.
Materials: (These will be provided by the teacher.)
First-time participants will receive the following:
-1 lb. of Ruby Italian Twine
-3 oz. ball of variegated cotton yarn, Gauge: 4, medium worsted
-Shears
-Set of Tapestry Needles, size 16, large eye, blunt point
-18 in. ruler
-Tote bag
Participants who have completed at least one full set of classes will instead receive their choice of either:
-5 lb. of Ruby Italian Twine
OR
-Reference books:
Complete Book of Basketry Techniques, by Sally Goymer and Sue Wright
A Dictionary of Color Combinations Vol. 1, by Sanzo Wada
Symmetry: The Ordering Principle, by David Wade
Proportions: In Art & Architecture, by Michael Schneider
Dates for Classes:
October Monday Mornings
October 6, 13, 20, 27
9am-11am
October Monday Afternoons
October 6, 13, 20, 27
1:30pm-3:30pm
Check-in and Meeting Space: Check-in begins on the first day at 2:00pm at the Saint Meinrad Guest House. The first workshop meeting will begin at 3:00pm. An email about the workshop will be sent out within a month of the workshop. That email will verify the location of the meeting space, along with other information about the workshop.
Meals: Meals will be provided during the workshop. If you have any allergies or food preferences, please indicate those when registering. You can also email baskets@saintmeinrad.edu so that information can be addressed.
Check-out and Closing Meeting: Check-out will begin at 11:00am on the last day of the workshop. Lunch will be provided from noon until 1:00pm that day. Following the meal, a closing meeting will take place from 1:30pm to 3:30pm.
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