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Traditional Basketry

  • Barnwood Farms E290 Johnson Road Waupaca, WI, 54981 United States (map)

Traditional Basketry: Wool Drying Basket

Join us for a hands-on workshop where you'll craft a beautiful and functional replica wool drying basket. This class is perfect for beginners and those looking to learn the fundamentals of basket weaving.

This versatile basket, measuring approximately 13” x 13” at the opening and around 12” tall (including its woven feet), is not only ideal for its original purpose of drying wool, but also perfect for holding sewing projects, flowers, yarn, or any number of household items. The basket has an open weave bottom with wooden feet for air circulation.

Over the course of the workshop, you'll gain essential skills in:

  • Material Preparation: Learn how to select and prepare your weaving materials for optimal results.

  • Measuring and Marking: Discover the techniques for accurate measuring and marking to ensure a well-proportioned basket.

  • Basic Weaving Techniques: Master fundamental weaving patterns as you construct your basket, including how to create its distinctive woven bottom and feet.

  • Starting and Stopping Weaves: Understand how to seamlessly begin and end your weaving rows.

  • Simple Rim and Lashing: Learn to create a sturdy and attractive rim for your basket using traditional lashing methods.

By the end of this workshop, you'll not only have a completed wool drying basket to take home, but also the confidence and skills to continue your journey in the art of basketmaking!

Class Information

Date: Sunday July 27th 2025

Time: 9:00AM-3:30PM with a 30 minute lunch break. Local coffee, pastries, and lunch will be provided.

Location: Barnwood Farms, E290 Johnson Road, Waupaca, WI, USA

Age Requirements: 18+   

Materials Fee: $25

Class Requirements: Basket making is wet work, wear old clothes and bring a small hand towel.

Registration Closes: Thursday July 24th, 2025

Class Fee

We offer a sliding scale option for our class fees to enhance accessibility for all individuals interested in our classes. Local coffee, pastries, and lunch is included. The class fee does not include materials; the materials fees is charged separately and charged as noted above. The materials fee is combined with the class fee when you add to cart. When adding the class to your cart, kindly choose the fee that best aligns with your circumstances based on the information provided below:

Advocate: $145

Choosing this level means you can comfortably pay above the standard class cost and have the financial resources to attend educational opportunities without concern for your budget. This generously enables us to offer reduced fees to others and support the school's continued growth.

Sustainer: $120

This level represents the standard class fee, chosen by those who can budget for enriching educational experiences. This directly supports the quality of our programs.

Partner: $95

This level offers a reduced class fee for those who need it to participate, ensuring our programs are accessible and welcoming to more individuals.

See our FAQ for more information.

Instructor Biography:

Barbara Johnson, Basket Weaver

In 1998 she wove her first basket and was instantly hooked. Since then, she has continually advanced her skills by attending basket weaving conferences and belonging to a basketry guild. Teaching basket weaving has become a passion, specializing in practical, functional reed baskets. Barbara loves weaving baskets and helping others learn the art. It is her goal when she teaches her classes, that the people in her class leave with a finished basket that they are proud of and have a great time learning about basket weaving.

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