Willow Backpacks
Practice the craft of willow basketry while creating the perfect vessel for hiking in the woods or toting things around town. In this three-day workshop, you will learn to make a willow backpack with straps. We’ll begin by making an oval base and inserting stakes. Then we’ll weave the upsett, and begin weaving the sides, using the French rand method. On the second day, you will continue by weaving to the top of the backpack, ready for the border. On the third day, you will weave the border, add a footer if you choose, cut the straps to size, make the straps, add the buckles, and insert the straps onto your backpack. Experience the gratification of having an heirloom backpack that you’ve made yourself!
While beginners are always welcome, this class is most suitable for those who have made at least one willow basket before. Moderate hand strength is recommended for this workshop. Arrive with a willingness to learn, a sense of humor, and patience with yourself and others. We will be working steadily and have a lot to get through!
***Students may bring their own leather or web strapping for backpacks, if desired. Five straps are needed. One strap will go around the top of the backpack. The next two straps will be riveted to the top strap on the back, travel down the outside, through the bottom and out the bottom on the inside. The last two straps will be riveted to the top strap on the inside. This one will go around your arms, so needs to have plenty of length. They will secure to the bottom straps with a buckle. Three buckles are needed to fit the strapping as well.
Alternatively, instructor can provide all strapping, rivets and buckles for an additional $30 materials fee.
Meet Your Instructor:
Beth Bridgeman
Beth Bridgeman is a willow basketmaker and traditional skills instructor residing in Southwest Ohio. A former professor of sustainable practice at Antioch College and before that an Extension Educator with The Ohio State University, Beth is passionate about somatic learning ( “the Great Remembering”), reskilling, and connecting community, culture and craft.
Class Details:
Location: Green Door Folk School – 2312 E Kasson Rd, Cedar, MI
Date/Time: April 17th – 19th @ 10:30 am – 4:30 pm each day
Cost: includes all materials necessary for the class
Prerequisites/Skill Level/Age Requirements:
- No prior experience required.
- Ages 18+
Booking Information:
What happens after I book the class? After you book, we will send you a confirmation email that you are IN! A week out from the class, we will send you an email with more details about our meeting locations and some housekeeping items.
Where can I stay if I’m coming from out of town? If you’re traveling for a class, we highly recommend a stay at Cedar North, a cozy farm-stay just steps from the Green Door Schoolhouse. Nestled on a permaculture farm in Leelanau County, Cedar North offers peaceful garden views, the charm of a working goat farm, and room to roam and reflect. NOTE: Indicate you are a Green Door student at checkout for a discounted rate.
Policies:
Go for it! If you love a methodical craft practice, frequently find yourself on the go, or find joy in the interaction with natural materials in your everyday life, this is the class for you!
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