2021 Willow Basket Workshop
The regenerative, abundantly growing willow plant has been used for basketry for thousands of years. Willow is durable, incredibly strong, and beautiful. During the 2021 Willow Basket Workshop, participants made a round-base basket in the shape and size of their choice. The workshop covered respectful harvesting, propagation, storage, and preparation of willow for weaving. Participants also learned traditional weaves including twining, 3-rod waling, English randing, and 4-rod waled top border and chose from three different handle designs. Each participant went home with a beautiful willow basket.
The workshop was taught by Mary Lauren Fraser, who 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 and also plays fiddle and teaches and performs solo and in various collaborations.
