Using responsibly harvested, hand-pounded black ash, you build a basket that is light, durable, and structurally stiff once dry. Black ash is valued for this work because its growth rings separate cleanly under impact, creating long, flexible splints that weave smoothly, tighten under tension, and hold their shape under load.
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Work with hand-pounded black ash splints and learn how the material is responsibly harvested and processed into consistent weaving stock.
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Practice sustained, deliberate tension to build structural integrity, consistent spacing, and clean vertical walls that hold under weight.
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Build a strong carry basket suited for harvesting, canoe trips, gardening, foraging, and carrying tools and provisions for every adventure.
Over two days, craft your own traditional Adirondack-style black ash pack basket. Your finished basket includes:
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A complete, functional pack basket built entirely by hand.
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Hand-pounded thick black ash splints woven into the rim.
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A durable base made of pine and runners made of cedar.
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Adjustable webbing straps for comfortable field carry.
Great for harvesting, canoe trips, farmer’s markets, and every day hauling, this basket is built to be used. With proper care, it can serve for decades of real-world work.
This workshop includes a significant materials component with a corresponding materials fee. Preparing black ash for weaving is labor-intensive and requires careful processing before class begins. All materials are responsibly sourced and fully prepared in advance, so your time is focused on building your basket. No prior weaving experience is necessary. Expect real hand and forearm work. Splint basketry requires sustained grip strength and steady tension. If you enjoy hands-on, skill-building craft, this is deeply satisfying work.