Black Ash Basket Making Workshop (2 Full Days-Sept 28 & 29)

During this 2-day workshop, you will learn the intricate process of creating stunning baskets from black ash splints. Our experienced instructors Josh and Sarah Homminga will guide you through each step from preparing the materials to weaving the basket. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this workshop is perfect for all skill levels.

(Basket shown is an example and may vary from the actual project.)

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS:

Josh and Sarah Homminga are black ash basket makers. Josh is a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe and Sarah is a Bay Mills Indian Community member, they reside in Bay Mills, Michigan. 

Josh grew up leaning the art of black ash basketry, as this art has been passed down within generations of his family. Josh didn’t take a real interest until his great aunt and uncle, Bernadette & Roger Azevedo, made a statement that had an impact on him. They stated that they were afraid that no one in the family will keep this art alive. They taught workshops for many years and were worried that no one has truly learned the process and carry it on. Josh took their words to heart and decided to continue learning and sharing this art. 

In 2012, Josh and Sarah started dating, during this time, Josh started teaching Sarah the process of black ash basketry, starting with the harvesting and then how to process the log to make the materials for a basket. Sarah was fascinated by the whole process It is something very unique, the thought that you are able to go into the woods and use a natural resource and with a little work, transform it into something absolutely beautiful. 

This is a laborious process, as you have to pound the layers off the log, split the layers into individual strips, then scrape those strips smooth, once they are smoothed and we have the desired thickness of the strip ready, we then start making/cutting our bottoms (structure/ribs of the basket) and our ribbon (weavers), which are going to be thinner than the bottoms.  We then choose colors, we use Rit fabric dye, and we are ready to assemble our basket.   

 Josh and Sarah were married in 2019 and together have 5 children. They both held “corporate positions” for many years before deciding to pursue basket making full time. They have facilitated many workshops and have traveled throughout Michigan, Canada, Minnesota and Wisconsin. They enjoy sharing and teaching the process of basket making.  Recently this year, they were honored to have their baskets given to President Joe Biden, First Lady, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Deb Haaland as gifts. They take pride in all their work and plan to continue making them. This art has allowed Josh and Sarah to provide for their family and they are able to share their knowledge with others. 

In addition to making baskets, Josh has also made hats, these hats are worn by traditional dancers, this is another accomplishment that they are both proud of. Their work can be viewed on their facebook page. www.facebook.com/fromlogtobasket