Apprenticeship Program 2025
Who is it for:
This is a journey for those who are eager to pursue a deeper, intensive and long term relationship with willow - a plant that for centuries has offered masterful artistry and functionality.
The curriculum and course work is a unique opportunity rarely offered in this scope within the United States.
The intimate size of the group (4) provides each student with attention and exploration space/time into their own artistry and craftsmanship.
Applicants should already have a basic understanding of working and weaving with willow.
Must apply by October 25th, 2024
Where and when:
You will be required to travel to Orcas Island,Washington State, and work 9am-5pm for 3 consequent days once a month. This is a 7 month program starting in February 2025, so 7 visits total. I am offering a shared sleeping space and vegetarian lunch for the 3 days each month that we work together.
Tuition:
The tuition for this 7-month in-depth apprenticeship with over 168 hours of in-person learning is $7,000. .This cost includes all teaching fees, materials fees, lunches during the in-person days, and shared accommodations. This fee does not include transportation. There is a $630 discount for locals if you don’t need a place to stay.
I will offer an optional opportunity to connect between our in-person meetings via a Zoom call. While not required, the purpose of the call is to provide an opportunity to check-in, provide updates to each other and me, and for me to answer any questions you may have.
The apprenticeship will be tailored to group interests, with other opportunities such as more willow and willow bark harvest, assisting teaching in classes, participating in creating a living willow sculpture and more.
Tentative Apprenticeship outline
February 21-23
Willow harvest, sorting, collecting cuttings, learning about different varieties, growing styles
Hoop making, tadzka
March 21-23
New planting, Round basket, straight walls, study of round bases, Pairing/reverse pairing, planning your basket, shaping, handle
Bellied round basket,
April 25-27
Round framed, scalloming, study of a wale, when to use what kind, decorative/ structural, English rand, inset handles. border sizes
Round lid
May 16-18
Oval stick and strand with lids, Creel,
prepare hoops for next time
June 13-15
Fitched tray with braid border,
Framed oval, scalloming with by stakes and fitching, foot
Fitched lamp shade
July 18-20
Ribbed baskets, shaping, willow splits
roping
August 22-24
Catalan base single round, double oval
What to expect:
A deeper dive into all aspects of growing, harvesting, material preparation, and a wide range of weaving techniques.
You will participate in planting a new willow bed, harvesting dormant willow, and sorting and preparing willow for weaving. You will start with a round, stick and strand basket and build on your skills adding handles, lids, varied weaving patterns including French randing, English randing, slewing, packing, and zig-zag, Irish window. We will study different bases, rod borders and everything in between.