Pine Needle Basketry - A Wildcrafter's Workshop

Sunday November 10th, 2024
1:00-5:30
At the Chuckanut Center in Bellingham, WA

In this wildcrafting workshop you will learn how to weave a basket using the coil technique and Ponderosa Pine needles.

Baskets are thought to be one of the first art forms of ancient peoples, with basket fragments found in California and the Southwest dating to 9400 years, and coiled baskets from the earliest sites in Egypt dating to 7,000 years. The coil technique requires patience and attention to detail before it becomes a relaxing, repetitive stitching pattern. It is a skill that is more easily learned with a little guidance.

Dabblers, beginners, intermediate, and advanced weavers will enjoy this creative, social gathering.

In this course you will learn:

• ID and Ecology features of Pinus spp. (various pine tree species).

• Foraging techniques and where to harvest pine needles.

• How to weave a coiled basket using pine needles.

All materials will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own too if you wish (e.g., thread, beads, decor, sewing kit).

What to bring:

• Snacks/lunch

• Pliers

• Scissors

• A plastic bag for storing your work

• A larger bag for taking home handfuls of soaked pine needles

• A hand towel

• Journal and pen (optional)

• Your own sewing kit and/or embroidery thread (optional)

This course will take place indoors at the Chuckanut Center near Fairhaven in Whatcom County, WA. The Chuckanut Center is heated and has access to facilities including a bathroom, full kitchen, and drinking water.

Have a look at my Refund Policies before you order.