Weaving the Skruck Basket with Ty Sheaffer

Weave a unique splint basket from Sweden’s HŠlsingland province, the skruck basket, in this weekend-long workshop with Ty Sheaffer.

Originally a practical pack-style basket, a skruck is a splint basket made from split willow and ash, and unusual in that it is woven from the rim down. On Friday night, class will gather for an orientation to the basket, tools, and classroom. On Saturday, students will try out processing willow splints themselves using a brake from Sweden, prepare their weaving material from ash and willow, and prepare their basket rim. On Sunday, students will weave and finish their baskets. Throughout the weekend, additional topics will be discussed, such as materials harvesting, specialty tools, and some history of Scandinavian basketry.

Additional information:

• Advanced registration required.
• A materials fee of $50 is due in class to instructor Ty Sheaffer and covers all the tools and materials for one small basket.
• The size of the completed basket will vary based on each’s student’s pace; most students will complete a basket about 8″ tall.
• Students may also bring their own work gloves and a Mora style carving knife, if they have one.

Prerequisites:

• Basketry requires average hand strength and dexterity to complete a project, such as being able to open a jam jar.
• This course welcomes students of all skill levels.
• Suitable for ages 16+, or 14-15 registered alongside an accompanying adult.