Basketry: Stitched and Coiled

Utilising plant fibres to create something useful is not only immensely satisfying but it nurtures our connection with the environment, stimulating us to view plants in new ways.

Basket weaving is an ancient craft and the technique of ‘coiling and stitching’ fibres together to create a basket is still common in many cultures across the globe. Learning to coil a basket, provides us with a link and an insight in a tactile way to a depth of knowledge of plant fibres and methods of using them which have been passed down through generations for thousands of years.

The day will include a wander through CERES Community Environment Park to identify suitable plants for weaving, as well as a discussion on the history of traditional and contemporary basketry.

In this workshop, you will learn:

• How to create a stitched and coiled basket using locally gathered plant fibres.
• Material selection and preparation.
• Starting the coil, stitching method, shaping and finishing your basket.

Note: We recommend Basketry: Stitched & Coiled for beginners and Basketry: Twined for those further developing their skills.

Meet your trainer

 

 

Caroline Hawkins is a sculptural fibre artist, basket weaver and tutor. She has been creating and teaching art for 30 years. Trained in 3D design in London, Caroline is now based on Victoria’s Surf Coast.

A fascination for weaving with natural materials harvested from her surrounding environment threads a common theme through Caroline’s work. Development opportunities have seen Caroline learn from Indigenous weavers. Several overseas trips to learn basket weaving from other cultures have seen Caroline discover that weaving methods are similar across cultures, except materials vary as they relate to what’s available locally.

Caroline is passionate about sharing her knowledge with others, believing that practising art and crafts can form an important part of a person’s identity and support their well-being.