Birch Bark Knife Sheaths

Try out the craft of weaving with birch bark while making a couple knife or scissors sheaths in this evening-long workshop. Woven birch bark is a traditional craft from Scandinavia, used for creating all kinds of baskets, boxes, and other sturdy and useful items. Beth will share cultural and ecological history of the paper birch tree, as well as describe their process for sustainably harvesting birch bark from live trees. Meanwhile, students will work on weaving two straight sheaths perfect for securely holding a favorite pair of scissors or carving/utility knife.

No previous basketry experience is required, but birch bark weaving requires some hand strength and dexterity. Suitable for ages 16+.

A $30 materials fee is paid to the instructor and covers the two sheaths. Students are invited to bring two tools with blades no longer than 5” so the sheaths can be custom fit, such as a pair of scissors or Mora/sloyd knife. Mora carving knives are a useful utility or carving knife and can be purchased in the ASI Museum Store.