Due to closure of Montgomery County community centers, we are working to reschedule this workshop. To confirm date and register, please call 215-256-3020.
The workshop is taught by master basket weaver Karen Wychock. Working over a wooden mold in the manner of the Shakers, we will be weaving the classic Shaker Cathead basket. This 10” basket will be woven of reed with an oak handle. This basket uses 7 mm spokes and fine weavers so be ready for a challenge!
The Cathead Basket was one of the most popular made by the Shakers. Its name derives from the fact that when it is held upside down, its shape resembles a cat’s head – the corners being the ears. Although the original design was borrowed from the Native American baskets, it was refined by the Shakers. Students will learn to lay out the base, shape those distinctive ears, chase-weave the sides of the basket and lash a rim.
Instructor Karen is a member of the Bucks County Craftsmen’s Guild and the PA Guild of Craftsmen. As a weaver of traditional Shaker baskets, she has sold her work through various shows throughout PA and Delaware. She was also president of the Penn-Jersey Basket Weavers Guild for six years and has taught numerous basket weaving workshops.
Preregistration is necessary as the workshop size is limited. The workshop fee is $65 ($60 member) plus the materials fee of $40. No refunds are given unless a workshop is canceled for insufficient enrollment.