Death and Transition Series at LICHEN CENTER presents a Willow Basket Workshop with Mary Lauren Fraser

Come make a traditional willow basket with Mary Lauren Fraser!

Mary apprenticed under Karen Collins in Scotland and now offers handmade willow caskets to the local and greater New England community. Mary supports the growing movements of green burial and traditional home funerals in North America. Rather than shipping caskets far and wide, Mary hopes to inspire weavers from throughout North America to cultivate this traditional craft within their own local communities.

Mary lives and works in southern Vermont. She was the first person in North America to weave willow coffins for green burial, a popular choice in Europe but still rare in the states / Turtle Island. Mary also plays fiddle and teaches and performs solo and in various collaborations.

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“The regenerative abundantly growing willow plant has been used for basketry for thousands of years. It is durable, incredibly strong, and beautiful. Students will each make a round-base basket in shape and size of their choice. The workshop will also cover respectful harvesting, propagation, storage and preparation of willow for weaving. Learn traditional weaves including twining, 3-rod waling, English randing, and 4-rod waled top border. Choose from three different handle designs and go home with a beautiful willow basket.” - Mary

Note: the workshop takes a fair bit of hand strength.

Tuition: $175 plus $50 material fee

When:  July 24-25, 10am-4pm

Where: LICHEN CENTER, Blue Hill, Maine / Penobscot Territory

Sign-ups end on July 10th. 12 participants maximum.

This workshop will take place outside, so please bring what you need to be comfortable. We will provide water, tea and chairs. Bring your own cups, snacks and lunch. If you need any specific accommodations, please let us know.