Ash Splint Pack Baskets

Ash trees, like oaks, elms, hickories, and more, are ring-porous: the spring growth or "earlywood" (the area between the true growth rings of the tree) is full of pores. This unique characteristic allows for the rings of these trees to be separated individually, along the length of the log, so they maintain their full integrity and strength. This makes them ideal for weaving into baskets. Using a knife, growth rings may be further split and shaved into splints for weaving.

Learn to process brown ash logs into splints for weaving, and weave a brown ash pack basket. We'll cover the basics of identification, ethical gathering, processing and storage, and horizontal plaited basketry. These strong baskets will, if properly cared for, last a lifetime or more. Price of tuition includes all required tools and materials. Small snacks and drinks will be served. You should bring a lunch, water bottle and whatever else you may want for the days of weaving.

There is a opportunity to pay for a portion of the tuition for this class via work-trade, for students who can put in a few days during the week beforehand helping to prepe materials. If this is something you're interested in, please get in touch.

Space in this class is limited. Preregistration, along with a paid deposit, is required to reserve a spot in the class. Deposits may be fully refunded in the event of a cancellation a week or more before the class, if the space is filled. Refunds for last-minute cancellations are unfortunately not available. Please plan accordingly. Contact Rewild Maine at (207) 449-7738 or rewildmaine@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Rewild Maine is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We depend on donations from the community to offer free classes and workshops and we are grateful for your support. Scholarships are available for paid classes on an as-needed basis and nobody will ever be turned away for lack of funds. All donations are tax-deductible.