Location: FAX LAB, Maastrichterstraat 9, Hasselt
Price: Free
In this workshop Rob Hillen will learn a simple and accessible technique to weave a basket from the cattail plant (Typha latifolia and T. angustifolia). We start by introducing the plant, some of its traditional uses and how to identify it. We will talk about how to harvest the plant responsibly, following the guidelines of the Honourable Harvest, as explained by Robin Wall Kimmerer in her book Braiding Sweetgrass. The main part of the workshop is, of course, weaving a little basket.
What not to expect from the workshop: a thorough and technical class on how to reach a ‘perfect’ cattail baskettaking home a big finished basket
What to expect from the workshop:an exploration of how accessible and fun weaving plants can beguidelines for how to responsibly harvest your own cattailsa jumping-off point from where to start experimenting by yourselftaking home a tiny, possibly unfinished basket; together with skills that can be upscaled to make bigger baskets
We start the workshop at 13h30 with a collective introduction. After this, you are welcome to continue weaving for as long as you enjoy, or take breaks and restart as you please. Around 17h30, we will close the workshop. There is no need to bring anything, all materials will be provided.