Bark Basketry - 2 Days

Description

Have you ever made something truly from start to finish? 

Have you ever set out with nothing, and ended up with something tangible & useful in your hands?

In this two day workshop you will learn the ancient craft of bark basketry. The techniques, methods and materials you’ll use have changed very little since pre-historic times.

We will cover

Day 1 
- The history of bark usage 
- Understanding trees & bark
- Identification of suitable trees
- How to harvest bark 
- How to store bark
- Case study; Native Americans & Wester Red Cedar

Each student will harvest their own bark ready for the following day

Day 2
- How to prepare and use bark for baskets
- Barks strengths and weaknesses 

Each student will create their own basket using a combination of bark they have harvested, and some harvested & supplied by Fazey Woodcraft.

We will be making folded bark baskets, similar to the one shown in the workshop image. These are based on a pre-historic Native American design, called a 'Makuk'.

Each student will also learn basic carving and green-woodworking techniques for making the rim & handle of the basket.

As with all woodcraft & bushcraft activities, the most important elements are identification & respect. Tree identification, respectful harvesting and general woodland knowledge will permeate the days learning.

Suggested Videos/Reading if you're interested in the subject

The Spirit of the Trees

The Art of Basketry

Tending the Wild

And of course the book

Braiding Sweetgrass - Robin Wall-Kimmerer

Pease read the information below carefully before booking.

Use the arrows either side of the calendar to navigate through the months to see when workshops are running!

Location -

Hardy's Birthplace Visitor Centre & Thorncombe Wood - DT2 8QJ

Courses run from 10am - 4pm

All tools & wood provided

COVID-19 -

If a workshop has to be rescheduled due to a change in Covid circumstances, a rebooking voucher will be offered to all students.

Excluding the above, all bookings are non-refundable.

These workshops are for adults only, however children from age 16+ may attend if joined by a participating adult.