Baskets have long served essential purposes for collecting, storing, and transporting goods. Their forms evolved according to specific needs, available materials, and functional requirements. As natural extensions of the body, baskets help carry and organize items. Adapting this concept to a bicycle is a natural progression, allowing riders to transport belongings while keeping both hands safely on the handlebars.
In this course, students will work with black ash in two forms: woven splints and carved billets. Pre-harvested and pre-shrunk ash splints will be cut, scraped, and woven to create the basket body, following specific dimensions and techniques. Students will also shape and carve prepared ash billets on a shave horse using drawknives, spokeshaves, and slöjd knives. These pieces will then be steam-bent to form the basket’s outer rim and single handle.
The final assembly includes lashing the carved wooden components to the woven basket and attaching an Electra handlebar mounting system. A nifty quick-release clip allows the basket to be removed when not in use, resulting in a practical and attractive basket designed for everyday cycling. Approximate dimensions of the completed basket will measure 9” x 6” x 6”.
No prior weaving experience is required for this course, but knife comfort and hand strength are needed to accomplish this project. While there are no long extended periods of standing, students will use their legs for periods on the shaving horse.
Students ages 18 and up may register for this course independently. Youth ages 16-17 are welcome to register with an adult. Adult/youth pairs will complete one project and pay one materials fee. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full-paying adult; call to register.
Required Tools
- Paper and pencil for taking notes
- All other tools are supplied by the instructors
Optional Tools
