Gathering Moments I

Basketry has a unique way of bringing people together, weaving stories and skills into every piece. I’m introducing myself to new and old friends and share a glimpse of my work, alongside a special highlight from one of the talented participants in Sunday Basketry with Linda workshops, Jenny Harber.

Sunday Workshops started with making a coaster using fabric strips, from my stash of fabric left over from patchwork, and cotton thread using blanket stitch

About Me and My Work

I started to create with basketry techniques about 20 years ago. Although I do have memories of a child helping repair yabby nets. My work has shifted to focusing on sustainable practices like reusing eclectic items, fibre and fabric. My approach builds on all the makers and creators that have used basketry techniques across the world. Through my Sunday gatherings I encourage makers to see waste materials as valuable resources. From frozen pea bags to pillow cases and other forms of waste that is hard to recycle.

In my workshops it is as much as about gathering together and sitting with one another as it is about the making. I offer participants a kit to get going, as some like the thought of basketry but in practice discover that it is not for them. We meet at Unique State Art Space with Elaine Sullivan as the host on a Sunday, towards the end of the month, mostly the fourth. Sunday Workshops have developed into a space for caring for one another and sharing tips. Those tips are often helpful for us to slow down and focus as we all create wonderful pieces.

Spotlight on Jenny Harber

Jenny Harber was one of the first to join in two workshops at the Curious Rabbit hosted by the enigmatic Vickie Burkinshaw. What started as one workshop lead to two and then ongoing. At its core Jenny's work reflects her love of colour with her being a prolific maker. I am still in awe at how she has developed her basketry artistry over the course of the year we have been meeting.

Jenny’s work highlights how reuse can be both practical and artistic. We all see what we have at home and augment with finds at thrift stores.

Baskets by Jenny Harber made over the course of 12 months

Why Reuse and Fabric Recycling Matter

Using recycled fabric in basketry reduces textile waste, which is a major environmental issue. By repurposing scraps, makers like Jenny and all the Sunday Basketry crew contribute to a cycle of reuse that lessens landfill impact and encourages connectivity to what we consume and its lifecycle. This approach also makes basketry accessible, anyone can start with leftover fabric and simple tools such as scissors, needles and thread.

Here are some practical tips for incorporating recycling into your basketry:

• Collect scraps from old clothes, linens (pillow slips and torn sheets are perfect) or craft projects such as I did with the patchwork offcuts.

• Cut fabric into strips of consistent width for easier for covering your core.

• Mix different textures and colors to add depth (I would suggest you do this after you have made your first one using the similar weight fabric).

• Experiment with combining fabric with natural fibers like raffia and garden clippings such as strappy grasses and vines.

  
  

These steps help you create unique baskets while supporting sustainable practices.

Sunday workshop table | next session is Sunday 18 January, 10am to 12noon at Unique State Artspace