Cattail Berry Basket

Join us at Pioneer Lodge in Red Deer for a day of weaving.

What if the rustling cattails that line the marshes could be coaxed into carrying your berries home?

Join us to find out, as we weave these green blades into a small vessel for gathering summer's sweetest moments.

In this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to weave cattails over a wooden form, practicing timeless techniques such as the checkerboard weave, pairing, and waling. Together, we will finish the basket with a simple trac border, creating a sturdy, beautiful berry basket made entirely from cattails.

SKILLS LEARNED

Preparing and handling cattail leaves

Weaving over a wooden form

Checkerboard weave and pairing

Finishing with a simple trac border

DIFFICULTY: GENTLE BEGINNER

No experience needed. We work with soft materials like cattail, bulrush, and willow bark. They're supple, patient, and easy to undo. If you've never woven before, this is a great place to start.

WORKSHOP RHYTHM

4 hours · 3 hours guided instruction · 15 minute break partway through for tea and light snacks

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 water bottle and a lunch or snacks to keep you going.

CHILDREN & YOUTH

Children over 12 are welcome in Gentle Beginner and Beginner workshops with a dedicated caregiver. We ask for a 1:1 adult-to-child ratio, and children must be supervised by their caregiver at all times.

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

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

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