Large Willow Herb Tray/Irish Skib Weaving
Basketry is an ancient craft, dating back thousands of years. Weaving willow is meditative, soothing and gratifying and invites relationship with the material. It is a somatic experience, connecting us to ancient feelings and ways of knowing.
In this one-day course, we will make a large, lipped tray suitable for multiple uses. You can choose to make either a traditional Irish skib used for draining and serving boiled potatoes) or an herb drying basket or serving platter, or just make a large, lipped tray for your own creative use! You will learn basic techniques that can be used for future baskets as well.
You will walk away with:
- A beautiful, handwoven basket you made yourself
- The skills to make additional baskets on your own at home
- Hands-on experience with creating bases, twining, waling, and borders
- The confidence to try again!
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
Beth came to this practice through an ivy basket workshop at an ethnobotany conference in British Columbia, which was taught by Salish and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh teachers. Later she became interested in working with willow, and was fortunate to find an Appalachian willow mentor, Talcon Quinn, who has mentored her over several years
Prerequisites/Skill Level/Age Requirements:
- No prior experience required.
- Ages 18+
- Moderate hand strength is recommended for this workshop
