Susan and Eric Baxter
Workshop: Round Reed Rocks!
Dates: April 26th - May 2nd, 2027
Galena
Weston
Elleta
About The Baxters
Susan is from the Finger Lakes region in NY. She started weaving in 1988 and then picked up “Wicker Basketry” by Flo Hoppe. The round reed techniques and patterns within fostered an enduring passion for round rattan. Fast forward 30 years to her exploration of SheleeArt acrylic paint blooms. Bloom bases paired with round reed opened up a whole world of possibilities. In an ironic twist of fate, after enjoying the ease of slotted bases, she discovered she was all thumbs when creating a woven base.
She worked with her son to create a number of different spoke jigs. It has been another way to embed new technology with time-honored weaving techniques for a fresh approach to basket creation.
Her weaving journey now includes her husband Eric as they travel and teach throughout the USA.
Workshop Details
What could be better than 5 days of round reed instruction with a passionate instructor…2 instructors! That’s right, Susan and Eric will be working with weavers on (3) separate projects. Students will be switching back and forth between projects to provide relief from working in one position. Time and temperature permitting, there may be SheleeArt painting demonstrations and opportunities for student to paint projects.
Galena
Galena, an 18” wall hanging, will be the first project. It starts with a petal base which provides plenty of 3-dimensional interest. Secondary spokes will be used for structure in the border and also for the Ridge Weave. Fitching will showcase the taupe spokes and require an eye for precision. The Rewoven border will produce a symmetric finish that complements the intricacies of the prior techniques.
Galena Dimensions: 19.5” x 1”
Elleta
Elleta utilizes a 4” bloom base with secondary spokes that provide a colorful frame around the base. Ridge weave will be reinforced with this design as it does well with secondary spokes and requires a unique 3-rod wale. This core border leaves nothing behind. The spokes and secondary spokes are fused around a core for a one-of-a-kind look.
Elleta Dimensions: 9.75” diameter, 4” height
Weston
Weston is a lovely workhorse. Students will learn a 4x4 square overlay base, how to round it up properly, add a subtle footer and use 4-rod wale as a tapestry weave. Secondary spokes and weavers will be added for either Irish Pairing Weave or Triple Twine Pairing Weave. Students get to choose. The 4-rod, behind 2 border has 3 follow-on tracs that absolutely make it one of the strongest and most beautiful single spoke borders.
Weston Dimensions: 9” diameter, 4” height
Materials Fee: $319 total for 3 projects
Tools/supplies the student should bring: Reed scissors, spray bottle, seam gauge, packing tool, personal lighting, 2” spring clips, “weaving” towels, diagonal cutters, and a scratch awl. We will provide bent-nose pliers for the duration of the class. Optional tools: scorp (instructors have a couple)
Student Level: Intermediate and Above
An additional selection of kits/bases/jigs will be available for purchase at the workshop.
Overnight Packages
5-Day, 6-Nights Overnight Package Includes: 6 nights onsite lodging, private chef prepared meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and 5 days of instruction in a private venue.
Meals and Lodging: $ 1,172 per person private room, $757 per person shared room
Tuition/Fees $750
Materials Fee $319
Non-refundable deposit of $250 due to hold workshop space. The remaining balance is due 90 days prior to workshop start date.