Botanic Gardens Trust, Sydney, Australia

 

Foundation & Friends




Mixed Media Coiled Basketry

In this workshop students will learn the technique of coiled basketry, where materials are stitched together. Plant materials were traditionally used for this technique, and some plant materials will be provided by Meri, but this workshop also features a modern twist, making use of reclaimed materials such as plastic bags, scrap fabrics, onion bags, chip wrappers and scrap wool to create a colourful basketry bowl. This is a great way to recycle some waste materials from around the house.

Included in the workshop will be discussion around the history and culture of basket making, explanation of gathering and preparation of materials (particularly plant materials and plastics) and demonstrations followed by one-to-one instruction. Instructional notes will be provided.

The tutor Meri will provide all the necessary materials, but students may also bring their own reclaimed materials for experimentation. Flexible material that can be cut into long narrow strips (5 mm wide or less) is suitable; for instance, plastics, fabrics, rubber, leather, wool, mesh, soft wires, electrical cords, other cordage.

Please note that plastic bags from the supermarket checkout are NOT suitable for this workshop; plastic bags should be the smoother, non-rustling kind (e.g. from fashion shops).

Students to bring:
sturdy scissors
tapestry or embroidery needle size 18-22
thimble (optional)

When: Saturday 16 February 2013, 9.30 am - 4 pm
Where: Moore Room (next to Joseph Maiden Theatre), Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
Cost: $130 Foundation & Friends members, $150 non-members, includes morning tea and lunch and materials
Bookings essential: Book online, or call the office on 9231 8182.

 

Coiled basket from recycled materials 

Basketry: Rustic Twining and Cord Making

Discover the ancient and contemplative craft of making beautiful baskets from plant fibres. In this workshop students will learn twining and cord making, some of the oldest craft techniques known. 

The versatile technique of twining can be used to make a variety of forms ranging from small delicate vessels to large sturdy sculptures. During the workshop students will make two twined baskets with different materials including vines and strap-leafed plants, and incorporating hand made cord. Included in the workshop will be discussion around the history and culture of basket making, explanation of gathering and preparation of materials, and 
demonstrations followed by one-to-one instruction. Notes and plant 
materials will be provided. The tutor Meredith (Meri) Peach has had 
professional careers in both art and biology. Meri makes functional 
and sculptural basketry forms, using natural and reclaimed materials 
(see www.sharkchic.com.au)

Students to bring:
1 pair of sharp scissors
1 pair of sharp secateurs
1 plastic bag (e.g. supermarket bag)
2 old towels

When: Friday 31 May & Saturday 1 June 2013, 9.30 am - 4 pm
Where: Maiden Theatre, the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
Cost: members $260, non-members $300, includes morning tea and lunch and materials
Bookings essential: Book online or call the office on 9231 8182.

 

Rustic twined basket 

Random Weave Sculpture

In this workshop you will learn how to use plants to construct beautiful baskets with unique shapes, textures, colours and scents. You will make a basket incorporating the techniques of random weave and cord making. Included in the workshop will be discussion around the history and culture of basket making, explanation of gathering and preparation of materials, and demonstrations followed by one-to-one instruction. Bring an old towel and sturdy scissors or secateurs. Notes will be provided.

When: Friday 15 and Saturday 16 November 2013, 9.30 am - 4 pm
Where: Maiden Theatre, the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney
Cost: members $260, non-members $300, includes morning tea and lunch and materials
Bookings essential: Book online or call the office on 9231 8182

 

The Ride random weave basket