Date and time: Monday, April 28, 2025. 6:30-9:30 pm PDT
Location: Multnomah Arts Center (7688 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR), Room 39
Cost: $16 (includes $6 class fee and $10 materials fee). Your kit will include: Written handout, placed inside a plastic sleeve (to keep it dry). 3/8’’ flat reed (for weavers). 1/8’’; flat reed (for lashing).
Maximum number of students: 12
Instructor: Jenna Lechner
Student skill level: Beginner.
Tools needed for class: A bath-sized towel, to keep workspace dry. Small clothespin clips, 5-10. Small scissors for cutting reed. Spray bottle filled with water. Small tub for soaking reed (a small plastic tote works well)
Description: In this 3-hour class you will create a 2.5" tall, 7" diameter basket, in a hexagonal open weave pattern. Working with flat reed, we’ll learn how to: weave in three directions (triaxial weaving) and do a basic lashing around the rim of a basket.
In the 1800s and early 1900s, larger versions of this basket were used in cheesemaking, as a way to drain cheese curds by the religious group the Shakers. Line your finished basket with a linen cloth, and it works great as a small serving dish for things like bread.
Register online by clicking “add to cart” below.
Note: This class is meant for Guild members only. If you are not a Guild member, but would like to become one, we welcome you. Become a member by clicking here.
The last day to register or to get a refund is Saturday April 19, 2025. If the class fills, and you would like to be put on the wait list, email ColumbiaBasinBasketryGuild@gmail.com
Image of the top of the Shaker Cheese Basket project, courtesy of Jenna Lechner.
About Your Instructor
Jenna Lechner is an illustrator and art instructor based in Portland, OR. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Art degree in Printmaking, and a minor degree in Art History. She has taught art & craft classes in the Portland area for the last 10+ years. Working in traditional media like watercolor and ink, Jenna crafts nature-inspired illustrations about food, horticulture, and the environment. She also has a soft spot for ethnobotany, vintage print ephemera, and heritage crafts (like basket making!). See more of her work at jennalechner.com or on Instagram @jennamlechner