In this immersive class, you’ll learn the foundational techniques of twining while creating a beautiful series of woven bowls. Over four days, you’ll build skills progressively, exploring structure, color, pattern, and form.
- Day 1: Start with the basics as you learn each stage of basket construction.
- Day 2: Learn to add visual interest by incorporating simple patterns.
- Days 3 & 4: Explore shaping and design by modifying the profile of your vessel and creating a personalized pattern.
Throughout the class, we'll also explore pattern generation inspired by global textile and non-textile traditions. An introduction to the moiré effect will be used to examine a digital technique for developing interrelated patterns. Time permitting, we'll also discuss how these techniques can extend beyond bowl-making to new creative forms.
Learning Objectives:
- Twining techniques including forward twining and free-form pattern weaving
- Creating square bases, shaping vessels, and finishing rims
- Planning and scaling patterns for custom basket designs
By the end of class, you’ll have completed a set of woven bowls and gained the skills and confidence to create future projects in a variety of sizes and patterns.
Br. Jean Fish is a Benedictine monk of Saint Meinrad Archabbey, located in southern Indiana. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in sculpture from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2024. Since completing his degree, Br. Jean has been sharing his passion for traditional craft by teaching basket weaving classes at Saint Meinrad’s retreat center. His work is currently on display and available for purchase at the Showcase and Marketplace galleries at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts.
$495 - $585
Additional Supply Fee: None, the $40 fee for all materials and supplies is included in the cost of the class. This includes 1lb jute upholstery cord, 1oz of variegated cotton yarn size 4, a set of size 16 tapestry needles, shears, spools, a needle case, and a tote bag.
Scholarship Available: No.
Level: All, but note that the techniques used in the class will include repetitive fine movements with hands and fingers.
Minimum Number of Students:
9 by April 5, 2026
Maximum Number of Students:
12
Required Supplies:
- At least 2 different color yarn that are size 4, with one of them being a cotton yarn.
- Journal for taking notes.
- Pad of square graph paper.
- 18 Inch ruler
- Any reference material for patterns that students might want to incorporate into their bowl.
Class Schedule: Class will be in-person at the SEFAA Center from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm on beginning Wednesday, May 6 and ending Saturday May 9, 2026. There will be a short 1/2-hour break for lunch, so we encourage you to bring your lunch with you. We have a small refrigerator and microwave available for your use