2/9 Ribbed Wild Cucumber Basket Workshop

February: Ribbed Wild Cucumber

Feb 2nd & 9th 2026

This style of basket, often called a ribbed basket, gets its form from two stiff circles, followed by the addition of ribs. I have grape vines for this part and possibly other types of wood. Next we’ll weave with one of my most favorite magical plant friends: wild cucumber! This spectacular native vine (Marah oregana) is both ephemeral and deeply perennial. I dug up a root once and there’s a reason it’s called “Old Man in the Ground” – the root was the size of a skull and went down deeper than I could dig.  The vines emerge in the spring, flower, fruit, then die back during the summer.  Harvested at the right time, we can take as much as we want without any damage to the plant.  It is some work to process, so come prepared to help clean and prepare these lengthy fibers.

I’m teaching four different basketry styles this fall and winter at Whirled Pies! Workshops will be on Monday evenings (5-8pm) to further explore what is possible with locally harvested and naturally dyed materials. I’ve been busy gathering, processing, drying and dying plant fibers since early spring.

Space is limited by materials- so if there’s a basket that calls to you reach out soon and I’ll save you a spot. All classes are $50, limited work-trade available upon request. These classes are designed for adults and teens and probably not suited for most kids but all are welcome.

Grab a slice, your favorite beverage, and cozy up by the mural to spend the evening creating beautiful weavings like our ancestors did! Register at wildaliveoutside.com