Weaving Tension Trays with Hickory Nut Farmstead

Pre-registration is required to attend this program due to limited spots. If this program is sold out, please complete online registration to be added to the waitlist. You will not be charged to be added to the waitlist. We will contact you if spots become available.

Come learn about a wide range of plants that can be allies in basket weaving, including many plants that are likely not far from your own doorstep no matter where you live! Tension trays/Catalan trays are a wonderful introduction into the world of wild basketry! In this class, we will walk and learn to identify plants and forage our very own materials from invasive plant species at Blandford Nature Center to make a tension tray. At the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with your own handmade multipurpose woven tray that can be used as a platter, an herb dryer, a simple decoration or more! You’ll also leave with the knowledge of how to make many more such trays on your own. All weaving levels welcomed.

This program is for adults ages 18 and older.

Instructor Bio: Michael Marie is a land steward and basket weaver based in Southeast Michigan. She weaves conventional baskets and is also a member of the funerary artisans collective, weaving burial baskets (coffins, urns, and burial trays) for use in natural burial. She weaves with wild tended and heirloom willow in addition to many other plants, including those commonly considered invasive species. She believes reestablishing relationships with these overabundant and controversial plant species can improve ecosystem health, and deepen our relationship with the living world, and make a lot of crafts more easily accessible. You can find more about their work at Hickory Nut Farmstead here.

Please note: A portion of this class will be outdoors, up to an hour, weather depending. The hike may include inclines and/or descents of about 50 feet, and may traverse 2-3 flights of stairs. The trails are woodchipped and dirt and may have exposed roots. Dress for the weather, and in hiking shoes.

Pricing:

Adult Member: $28
Adult Non-member: $35

Cancellation Policy: Notice must be received at least 7 days before the scheduled program to receive a 75% refund. There will be no refunds issued after that time. Due to processing fees, full refunds are not available. All Community Programs will be held unless there is severe weather. Please come prepared for the elements as refunds are not available for weather-related conditions except in the case of severe weather. All Community Programs will have a registrant minimum. If the minimum is not met, you will be contacted by Blandford Nature Center and notified of your refund options.