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Joan's Workshops
Past & Present



All the aspects of Salt Spring which drew us to move here, like the spectacular scenery, it's strong community of artisans, and comfortable climate are what also draws large numbers of visitors to the island each summer. I began to think it would be wonderful to be able to offer visitors to the island a series of basketry workshops.

Participants, whether they are locals or visitors have the opportunity to make a basket using local natural materials, such as, yellow and red cedar bark, beargrass, west-coast sweetgrass, rush etc. We discuss the selection and preparation of materials, the historical and contemporary significance of basketry and ultimately I hope to inspire creative exploration in basketry.

 

Schedule Summer 2010

All workshops are at Joan's studio unless alternate venue is noted.

The courses below are either one day or two courses. Materials costs are included in the workshop fee. All workshops are open to all levels of experience.

1 Day Workshop


Introduction to Basketry Using
Northwest Materials


This workshop will introduce participants to weaving with western red cedar bark, west coast sweetgrass, willow and wild cherry bark and beargrass. There are many weaving patterns and in this workshop we will look at regular and reverse twining, twill weave and X-lashing. These materials are lovely to work with and you are sure to enjoy creating a treasured basket with them.

Cost: $85
Location: Joan’s Studio, 1496 Beddis Road
Date: Saturday July 17
Time: 9:30am - 4:00pm


1 Day Workshop


Woven Necklace Basket 

Using a selection of barks, waxed linen thread and beads, participants will weave a small basket using twill and twining techniques. These pieces can become a lovely necklace or a small treasure basket.

Cost: $80
Location: Joan’s Studio, 1496 Beddis Road
Date: Saturday July 24
Time: 10:00am - 4:30pm

1 Day Workshop


Nantucket-Style Purse

Here is a basket you will not want to leave at home. Perfect for everyday use, this durable yet attractive purse is woven with a spirally twill weave. It has a wood base in the Nantucket-style, the sides are woven with dyed cane over reed and has a leather strap for carrying. This is a basket that is fun to weave and even more fun to use.

Cost: $85
Location: Joan’s Studio, 1496 Beddis Road
Date: Tuesday August 24
Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm



1 Day Workshop


Cedar Twill Tray

Using natural and dyed red cedar bark, participants will weave a striking twill pattern base. The sides of the tray will be twined with west coast sweetgrass and a sturdy double wrap rim will finish off this striking basket. We will discuss the preparation and dying of the cedar bark.

Cost: $85
Location: Joan’s Studio, 1496 Beddis Road
Date: Wednesday August 25
Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm



2 Day Workshop

Pacific Northwest Cedar Basket

This course will begin with a discussion about the gathering and preparation of natural materials found in the pacific northwest. Materials such as red and yellow cedar bark, willow bark, wild cherry bark, west coast sweetgrass and beargrass will be on hand. A wide variety of weaving techniques and patterns, including plaiting, variations of twining and twill weaves will be presented. Sample baskets will be available for ideas but participants will be encouraged to create their own design on their basket.

Cost: $160
Location: Joan’s Studio, 1496 Beddis Road
Date: Saturday August 28 & Sunday August 29
Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm
 

 
Updated On: July 4, 2010 Design by Brainstorm Productions