A melon basket, or "buttocks basket," curves and rounds in all the right ways. Playful and practical, its form settles naturally against your hip as you wander.

We will explore how willow can be encouraged into fullness, learning the techniques that allow the form to dip, swell, and rise with intention. Watching slender rods become a rounded, sturdy vessel is one of the small joys of working with willow.

A beautiful everyday basket for wandering, gathering, and carrying what you love. If your basket grows especially cheeky, you may have a little homework to complete it.

If you are interested in creating a custom-shaped basket, join us Friday evening to make your own wreaths to use as the hoop and handle in your basket.

SKILLS LEARNED

Tying a God's eye knot
Encouraging willow into a rounded melon basket form
Single rod randing
Packing weave
Using hoops to shape the dip, swell, and rise of the basket

DIFFICULTY: INTERMEDIATE

A full day that asks more of your hands and your focus. These projects move faster and explore trickier shaping, so they suit weavers who've handled willow before and are ready to settle in and let the rhythm take hold. Keen beginners are welcome, but should come prepared for a full day of focused learning. Your basket may be a little wobbly, and that is completely okay. Finger strength and confidence both grow with time.

WORKSHOP RHYTHM

7 hours · 3 hours guided instruction · 1-hour break · includes light snacks and tea

FINDING YOUR OWN RHYTHM

After the guided instruction, you will have time to weave on your own and bring your basket to a finish. This stretch is meant to feel unhurried. What to expect: https://www.halfmoonbaskets.com/weekend-of-weaving-red-deer#finding-your-own-rhythm

WHAT TO BRING

All weaving materials and tools are provided.
A water bottle and any snacks you may need.
Food for longer workshops, if you are staying through a break.
Comfortable clothing for hands-on making.

PIONEER LODGE

Workshops take place at Pioneer Lodge, a historic community hall in Parkvale, next to the arena and curling rink. The lodge is wheelchair accessible, has off-street parking, and includes a kitchen with a fridge and microwave.

SNACKS & TEA

Light snacks and tea will be available. Please bring a lunch and any extra food you need for the day, along with a water bottle.

LONGER WORKSHOPS

This is a full-day workshop with a 1-hour break partway through. Bring something to store in the fridge or heat in the microwave, or head out for a bite nearby.

This workshop is part of a full Weekend of Weaving: https://www.halfmoonbaskets.com/weekend-of-weaving-november-2026?utm_source=luma

See the schedule: https://www.halfmoonbaskets.com/weekend-of-weaving-november-2026#schedule

See all workshops: https://www.halfmoonbaskets.com/weekend-of-weaving-november-2026#workshops

Location

Pioneer Lodge

4324 46a Ave, Red Deer, AB T4N 6S7, Canada

Presented by

Basket Weaving Events

Learn to bend sticks and build baskets with Freyja Ulveland of Half Moon Baskets.

Hosted By

Arts & Culture