Cornell Cooperative Extension

Tompkins County
A handwoven basket with tools inside.

Our workshops are beginner-friendly!

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Primitive Pursuits Willow Basket Basics

  • Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

The woven willow basket is among the most beautiful and useful of containers. They are strong, light weight, and versatile. Willow baskets have been shaped into everything from cradles to coffins and are just as amazing now as they were to our ancestors.

This workshop provides hands-on instruction and practice in the weaving of a beginner level basket or tray. We will learn how to forage and grow willow and how to prepare it for weaving. We will cover a range of weaving techniques that will allow participants to continue on their weaving journey.

Skills covered:

  • How to obtain and prepare willow for weaving including Identifying, foraging, cultivating, harvesting, drying, soaking and mellowing.
  • Willow weaving techniques such as twining, randing, 3 rod wale and rims
  • Weaving a small basket or tray
  • Tool use including: carving knives, clippers and bodkins

Fee

$125 ($128.75 with credit card), includes a $50 non-refundable deposit

Learn More

https://primitivepursuits.com/earth-skills-for-adults/#winter-camp

Register

http://www.ultracamp.com/info/sessiondetail.aspx?idCamp=1259&campCode=PPC&idSession=589592

Location

4-H Acres
418 Lower Creek Road
Ithaca, NY 14850

Last updated November 4, 2026

 

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