Find answers to frequently asked questions about our workshops below.
What happens in a workshop?
Our general workshop flow is a quick introduction to each other, to basketry willow and the construction of the basket. We break up the weaving of the basket into steps- each one with a group demonstration then instructors offer support as you weave. We take a short break for lunch and then another mid-afternoon. We provide all the required tools and materials for the project. Each participant has their own workstation. Our space at Big Barn School of Basketry is generally limited to 8 people.
What type of basketry do you teach?
We are focusing on the baskets made with materials we can procure locally, either by growing or wild harvesting. So the style of basket we make depends on the materials we use. Our focus is on willow basketry and we are growing many varieties to offer colour and weaving quality. We teach stake and strand, frame and plaited basketry and continue to add in more complex styles (square work) and techniques (scalloming, fitching) as we learn ourselves and invite expert makers to come and share their particular techniques.
What tools do you use?
Most of our classes use hand tools: secateurs, knives, bodkins, side cutters, rulers, weights, rapping irons. Some projects also require a jig or hoops to help with the shaping.
What prior skills or knowledge do I need to attend a workshop?
Each workshop description contains the suitability for beginners, improvers or more intermediate/advanced. Beginner workshops don’t require any prior experience but they do require some hand strength and stamina for working with willow for the duration of the workshop. Returning participants (improvers) to the beginner workshops get a chance to practice their skills and may be offered some variation on the project. Intermediate and advanced classes require the knowledge of basic weaving patterns as the focus of the workshop will be on specific skills identified in the description (i.e. scalloming, french base, fitching). Some workshops require working on the ground or standing.
I’ve woven my first basket; how do I get materials to weave another?
Our goal is to be able to provide both dry willow bundles and pre-soaked kits to offer to workshop participants and for sale on our website. We’re not there yet but please contact us for specific requests or keep an eye on our shop. In the meantime, there are several suppliers in Ontario that can ship dry willow bundles.
What’s the physical accessibility of our workshop space?
We are always trying to improve the accessibility of our space to accommodate different levels of mobility but are limited due to the nature of the older building we are currently in. There are ramps for wheelchair users but our washroom does accommodate every size of wheelchair. Please contact us for individual concerns about accessibility of our workshop space.
I am coming from afar for a two day workshop, are there accommodations nearby?
Our workshop location is about twenty minutes from the town of Antigonish. Being a university town, it is quite well equipped with accommodation options. There are some options with even closer proximity to the workshop space and we can help you find the right fit for you. Unfortunately, there is no public transportation to our site but we may be able to help you carpool. Please contact us for more information.
My group of friends all want to do a workshop; can you teach for private groups?
Yes! We can work together to find a time and project that works. Classes can either take place at Big Barn School of Basketry or at another appropriate setting of your choosing. Pricing depends on location, materials required and number of people.
What happens in the case of a cancellation?
Please refer to our cancellation policy. Due to the small size of classes, registration fees are non-refundable unless we are able to find someone to take your place.
