Class Description: In this class, students will make an asymmetrical form basket of out willow. Using traditional willow weaving techniques, we will create this contemporary design inspired by Polish basket maker, Stanislaw Dzuibak. A round base is woven in reverse pair, the stakes are inserted and the sides woven up in three rod wale and French randing. The asymmetrical element and the border of the basket is then woven from the stakes themselves! A sturdy branch handle is incorporated to finish the basket.

Class Date and Time: This two-day workshop is hosted on Saturday, May 18th, 2024 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and Sunday, May 19th, 2024 from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm with a one-hour lunch provided each day. Total teachable hours are 12 hours.

Materials Fee (included in total class fee): $40 and covers willow, branch handle, and tool use: bodkin, rapping iron, hand pruners, side nippers, saw, fid, basket weights.

Items students should bring: Lightweight gloves.

Lunch: Lunch is included in the class fee. If you have any dietary restrictions, please note them when you register.

Instructor Bio:  Jes Clark (they/them) is the farmer and weaver at Willow Vale Farm in Stanfordville, NY. Jes weaves traditional and contemporary functional pieces and the basket forms created are a result of their conversation with each stick of willow. All of their willow is grown without pesticides using regenerative practices and with loving care.

Class Description: Let the wood guide you! In this one-day course, you’ll learn basic bowl-carving techniques, including selecting the best trees for carving, breakingdown logs into usable bowl blanks, and practicing the basic axe and knife skills needed for safe and efficient carving. Using only three tools (axe, straight knife, and hook knife), you'll begin carving your own wooden bowl. You will leave with a few blisters on your hands, an appreciation for the therapeutic nature and addictive qualities of bowl carving, and the basic technique, confidence, and reference material needed to continue carving on your own. The small group format allows for safe and individualized instruction. 

Class Date and Time: This one-day workshop is hosted on Saturday, May 18th, 2024 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Total teachable hours are 7 hours.

Materials Fee (included in total class fee): $25 and covers wood blanks for carving, a dedicated workstation, use of carving tools, course materials, personalized instruction, coaching, and encouragement.

Items Students should bring from home: Lightweight work or gardening gloves and safety glasses (optional).

Lunch: Lunch is included in the class fee. If you have any dietary restrictions, please note them when you register.

Instructor Bio: Ian Hart operates a one-man traditional wood and metal shop near Lexington, VA. His work lays heavily on historic tradition, both in design and manufacture, largely involving the same tools and processes used by 17th and 18th Century craftsmen.  Ian formally learned traditional metalwork at the American College of the Building Arts and is a self-taught woodworker.  He apprenticed with Richard Guthrie, a Journeyman Blacksmith and 20-year veteran at Colonial Williamsburg, who taught Ian a passion for taking the time to make things properly, regardless of the cost.  Ian has worked in production, design and management at Cardine Studios, eventually transitioning to his own shop in Lexington, VA where he currently makes direct copies and original iron and wood works rooted in period examples, primarily using a coal forge and hand tools with a few modern pieces of equipment to speed things up. Every piece is hand finished to match historical ironwork. 

Class Description: Learn the basics of quilting with this approachable project!  Sewist Amie Otto will teach students how to construct a log cabin block and then turn it into a 16” pillow cover. Students have the option of bringing their own fabrics or purchasing a kit from the instructor (details below).

Class Date and Time: This one-day workshop is hosted on Sunday, May 19th from noon – 3:00 pm. Total teachable hours are 3. Fee: $75 + materials fee.

Materials Fee: $10 (included in total class fee), and covers sewing machine use and basic notions needed for sewing including clips, pins, scissors, needles, rotary cutter and mat. Additional supplies students should bring from home*: 

*Kit purchase available from the instructor for $35. Kit includes all items listed above. Upon registration student will be send instructions on how to order kit.

Instructor Bio: Amie Otto is a long time quilter, sewist and fiber enthusiast. Amie's journey into the world of needle and thread began at an early age when she learned to make garments with dreams of becoming a fashion designer.  Later in high school, she made her first quilt as an independent study for art class.  Since then, she has honed her sewing and quilting skills through countless classes, conferences, and seminars. In addition to her role as an instructor, Amie is an active member of several quilting and textile art communities. She frequently participates in classes, conferences, sew-alongs and workshops, staying abreast of the latest trends while respecting the timeless traditions of the craft. Amie’s teaching philosophy revolves around creating a supportive, fun and inspiring environment for her students. Her classes are not just about mastering techniques; they are a celebration of creativity and self-expression. Through patient guidance and hands-on demonstrations, she empowers her students to turn fabric into masterpieces, fostering a sense of accomplishment, confidence and pride in each creation.You can see more of Amie’s work on Instagram @quiltnest and @redfoxstitchery