Service Description

Learn to coil a Ponderosa Pine needle basket using waxed thread. The coiling technique creates rows of pine needles that are layered, sewn together and spiraled to create a basket. The instructor is Karen Gillespie. Karen is a long-time resident of Moscow, Idaho and discovered the art of pine needle basketry in 2022. Since that time, she has been perfecting her technique. She primarily uses coiled foundation centers but has experimented with wood centers. She exclusively uses Ponderosa Pine needles gathered locally. From start to finish, Karen gathers pine needles and processes them for use (glycerin and/or dye) and enjoys making baskets in every shape and size. This workshop will introduce you to making a coiled foundation center, basic stitches, and shaping to create a small basket. Information on harvesting and preparing the pine needles will also be discussed. All skill levels are welcome. All materials will be provided. Students are urged to bring a sack lunch.