What another wonderful combination of classes it turned out to be last week, weaving and willowing…serendipitous for September!
Students in the Independent Study: Weaving class did just that, focused on a specific project or technique, independently, with advice and assistance from instructors Judie Yamamoto and Lynn Novotnak. From echo weave to a Sashiko-inspired pattern, clasped weave to pick-up techniques, it was so interesting and inspiring to see the wide range of work completed in class.
Jo Campbell-Amsler guided students in weaving three rib-style willow forms, the Catalan Platter, Lindy Lee Flower Basket and Willow Gathering Basket. The sweet smell of willow wonderfully fills the studio and remains within the finished pieces for quite some time. These willow gathering trays and baskets are partly in and of themselves, and partly what they will hold or carry.
The willow is flexible, but strong, especially as it is woven and bound to the frame and through the ribs. Each piece brings nature’s bounty through the makers’ hands to form a functional basket.
Weaving and willowing. We’re lucky to have had them together and lucky to know we’ll be seeing each again this September and October!
