In this course, we will be exploring weaving techniques and variations associated with twining and wicker construction. These techniques offer a solid framework allowing us to focus on shaping and pattern design. A variety of techniques will be covered including randing, variations of twining, open weaves and random weave. We will look at symmetrical and asymmetrical shaping with an emphasis on the sculptural potentials of three-dimensional weaving. Our base material will be dyed reed or vine rattan with a wide…

Come weave a Classic Shaker Style storage basket in the elegant shape called a Cat’s Head basket. These baskets start with a square base with the basket resting on the four points of the base. It is woven in a unique way to achieve a rounded shape. We will focus on how to shape with the continuous twill pattern. This adaptation uses natural and dyed reed to emphasis the diagonal pattern of the weave. Register Online on the Coast Collective…

We will be weaving a beautiful tray inspired by the Hopi trays of the Southwest. The attractive sturdy structure of this tray along with multiple colour and pattern options, offer the participant the opportunity to complete a unique functional and decorative platter. We will be using dyed reed and raffia to make this basket. To Register: Call the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific at 250-479-6162 Cost: $120 HCP Members     $140 Non Members

Soft materials such as rush, sedge and flower leaves offer the basket maker a beautiful material for fine twining. We will be weaving a small bowl employing a plaited base, variations of twining for the sides and lovely rolled border. This is a traditional European basket material which we have plenty of access to here in the Pacific Northwest. To Register: Call the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific at 250-479-6162 Cost: $120 HCP Members     $140 Non-Members

Plaiting with Watercolour Paper, Pine Needle Coiling and Random Woven Basket In this 4-week course we will make 3 different baskets starting with the Pine Needle Coiled basket with a walnut slice start. The next basket will be a Plaited Basket with Watercolour Paper which has a shoulder shaping and decorative curls. The final basket we make will be a Random Woven basket using dyed reed. Dates: Wednesday nights - November 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2017 Time: 6:30 pm…

Weaving a beautiful individualized pouch or cell phone holder with local plant materials is very satisfying. I have carried my cell phone in a pouch like this for years and have had so many comments I thought it was time to share the fun. We will begin with a discussion on how to plan the project to fit a specific cell phone. Then we will weave and design the pouch using a variety of plaiting, twining and twill patterns. Local…

Weaving a beautiful individualized pouch or cell phone holder with local plant materials is very satisfying. I have carried my cell phone in a pouch like this for years and have had so many comments I thought it was time to share the fun. We will begin with a discussion on how to plan the project to fit a specific cell phone. Then we will weave and design the pouch using a variety of plaiting, twining and twill patterns. Local…

This workshop is being held at my studio space on Salt Spring Island. The Honeysuckle Rib basket is always a favourite with everyone who makes one and is ideal for beginners. This basket is also called an egg basket and has many design variations and allows for incorporating a wide variety of materials. We will be starting with honeysuckle vine hoops and using dyed reed and an assortment of natural materials for added texture and design interest. To Register: email…

This workshop is being offered through the Spring 2018 Maiwa School of Textiles in Vancouver, BC. Basket weaving is an ancient skill found in all cultures in a wide variety of forms. We will be exploring weaving techniques and variations associated with flat materials such as tree barks, wood/reed splints, palm leaves, and paper. A variety of techniques will be covered including plaiting, twill, diagonal plaiting and single sheet free form construction. These techniques offer a broad exposure to weaving…

In this workshop we will be exploring the use of gourds as a base for coiling. Gourds offer an extensive range of decorative design possibilities which combine well with basketry techniques. Discussion will cover the preparation of gourds from the cleaning, cutting, painting and drilling. Next, we will coil around the rim of the gourd using pine needles or other local materials on hand. To register: Call the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific at 250 479 6162 Cost: HCP Members-…

Soft materials such as rush, sedge and flower leaves offer the basket maker a beautiful material for fine twining. We will be weaving a small bowl-shaped basket with a radiating spoke base, variations of twining for the sides and lovely twined border. We have plenty of access to these basket materials found either in our gardens or local ditches and ponds. To register: Call the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific at 250 479 6162 Cost: HCP Members- $120  Non Members-…

This woven tray or platter utilizes willow for the frame and willow bark for the weaving. Prepared willow frames will be available for the class, yet each participant will learn the process of making one which they can keep for future use. Dyed cane will be used for the spokes which are attached to the frame at one end. Design and weaving variations will be presented. To register: Call the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific at 250 479 6162 Cost:…

Tree barks provide one of nature’s most beautiful materials for basket making. This course will begin with a hands-on discussion covering the harvesting and preparation of local tree barks.  With a selection of willow barks and red cedar bark participants will explore techniques such as plaiting, twill and twining. Principles of designing a basket and variations in weaving patterns will be covered. Sample baskets will be on hand for inspiration. To Register: email Joan at mailto:workshops@joancarrigan.com Time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm…

This 5-Day course is being offered through forestART: Art in Nature at Ness Creek 2018, Saskatchewan  Course Description: Basket weaving is an ancient skill found in all cultures. Within the world of basketry there exists a wide variety of construction techniques which employ a vast array of plant materials. This course will offer a broad introduction to techniques such as twining, cordage, coiling and random weave construction. An emphasis will be on the sculptural potentials of each of these techniques.…

This course offers a broad exposure to basket weaving techniques associated with using Flat Materials such as tree barks, wood/reed splints, cane and paper. Techniques covered include plaiting, complex twill, diagonal plaiting and single sheet free form construction. Over the 4 days, participants will finish 5 projects of diverse approach and material. Demonstration and discussion will cover how to harvest and prepare accessible plant materials for use in basketry as well as potentials for recycling materials. To register: email Joan…

This is a very sturdy rectangular splint woven basket with wood handle. It has an attractive check weave pattern and is a basket ready to be put to use. Great for shopping, garden produce, garden tools, storage etc. Perfect for beginners. To Register: Call HCP at 250-479-6162.

We will be exploring small scale basketry techniques which are well suited to jewellery and basketry forms. Two projects will be made. First a miniature basket using twining and plaiting with bark and waxed linen thread and secondly a small pouch made with knotless netting using waxed linen thread. A variety of patterns and design possibilities will be on hand for inspiration. To Register: Call HCP at 250-479-6162