Willow workshops at MERA

Jule Koch | Oct 19, 2016

From October 15 to 17, Lene Rasmussen, a master basketmaker from Wainfleet, Ont., gave two workshops on weaving with natural, unprocessed willow at the MERA (McDonalds Corners/Elphin Recreation and Arts) schoolhouse in McDonalds Corners. Rasmussen taught a two-day workshop on making a willow purse/handbag on Saturday and Sunday, and a one-day workshop to make garden globes on Monday. She grew all the willow that was used in the workshops and the participants were especially excited by the range of colors that were available for them to incorporate into their baskets. No dyes were used; the colors are all natural and come from the different varieties of willow.

For many of the students it was their first ever attempt at making a willow basket and it was a testament to Rasmussen’s ability as a teacher that they all left with finished baskets, complete with leather straps.

Rasmussen is dedicated to “re-introducing a very old craft”, the craft of willow basketry, which she finds both exciting and satisfying. She has established a business named Lakeshore Willows, where she grows about 30 different varieties of the plant and gives workshops, not only in making baskets but also in making structures such as living willow fences, huts, play tunnels etc.

For more information visit www.lakeshorewillows.com