Learn the Art of Basket Weaving at the Tennessee Basketry Association
There is something special about weaving baskets. It’s an art form that is truly timeless and allows you to create functional, beautiful objects that can be enjoyed for years to come. Just recently, I had the pleasure of teaching basket weaving classes at the Tennessee Basketry Association Convention in Alcoa Tennessee July 19 – 22 2023, and it was a truly incredible experience. I got to meet so many wonderful people, catch up with old friends, and of course, share my love for this craft. In this blog post, I’m going to tell you all about my experience teaching basket weaving, and why I think you should consider taking a class yourself.
The first thing that struck me about the Tennessee Basketry Association was the sense of community. As soon as I walked in the door, I was greeted with warm welcomes from both organizers and participants. Everyone at the event was there because they loved basket weaving, and they were eager to share tips, tricks, and trade secrets. It was an incredible atmosphere and made teaching all the more enjoyable.
During the classes themselves, I was amazed at the skill level of the participants. Many had been weaving baskets for years, and even those who were relatively new to the craft had clearly done their research and were eager to learn. I was able to share some of my own techniques and insights, but I also learned a lot from my students. There were many “aha” moments when someone would show me a new way to approach a weave, or a way to add an embellishment that I’d never thought of before.
Of course, it wasn’t all about learning new techniques. The classes and vending were also a great opportunity to socialize and get to know new people. I had some great conversations with my students during class, and in between sessions, we enjoyed meals together and swapped stories. It was a truly immersive experience that allowed me to connect with people who shared my passion for basket weaving.
Beyond the classes themselves, the Tennessee Basketry Association also had a silent auction where participants could bid on many items. Everything from antlers, kits, jewelry and so much more!
If you’re a basket weaver looking for a community of like-minded people, or simply someone who is interested in learning more about this wonderful craft, I highly recommend attending the classes at the Tennessee Basketry Association. The warm, welcoming atmosphere, the skill and creativity of the participants, and the opportunity to learn and socialize make it a truly incredible experience. I can’t wait to go back and teach again, and I hope to see you there as well. Happy weaving! Here is the link to their website! https://www.tennesseebasketryassociation.org
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