Basket Weaving: Onion Basket Workshop

Sunday, June 21, 2026
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (EDT)

Location:
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
2451 Kissel Hill Road
Lancaster, PA 17601

Tuition:
$80.00 – $90.00

Click Here to Register

Classroom:
Museum Store – Second Floor (one flight of stairs)

🧺 Learn Traditional Onion Basket Weaving Techniques

The Basket Weaving Onion Basket Workshop at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum introduces participants to the construction of a classic functional storage basket traditionally used for onions, produce, and household goods.

Historically, onion baskets were designed to provide airflow and durability, making them especially useful for storing vegetables and harvested produce. Their practical shape and sturdy woven structure made them common household and farm baskets throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.

In this hands-on workshop, students will learn traditional basket-weaving methods while creating their own onion basket from start to finish. Instruction focuses on:

• Basket shaping and structure
• Traditional weaving patterns
• Techniques for creating strong, durable walls
• Functional basket design principles
• Finishing and reinforcement methods

Participants will gain practical basketry skills while exploring how traditional crafts supported everyday life in rural communities.

The Basket Weaving Onion Basket Workshop is suitable for students who want to strengthen their weaving abilities while creating a useful finished basket. Throughout the class, students receive demonstrations and individualized instruction to help them understand each stage of the weaving process.

The workshop is taught by Joan Betzold, a nationally recognized basket weaver and instructor with more than 30 years of experience. Joan attends over 40 art, folk art, colonial, fiber, and gardening shows annually and has been honored as a Featured Artist at several nationally recognized events.

Joan designs, dyes, and weaves her baskets using centuries-old techniques without nails, glue, staples, or molds. Her work is known for combining traditional craftsmanship with artistic creativity, including award-winning baskets incorporating vintage tools, kitchen items, antlers, and family heirlooms.

In addition to teaching at museums and private workshops throughout the region, Joan has served for several years as the basket-weaving judge at the Maryland State Fair, reflecting her expertise and respected reputation within the basketry community.

This full-day workshop runs from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, providing students ample time to complete their onion basket while developing a deeper understanding of traditional weaving techniques.

Student Supply List

Students should bring:

• Measuring tape
• Sharpened pencil
• Brick wrapped in plastic wrap
• 12 large wooden clip-style clothespins
• Old towel
• Scissors
• Pocket knife
• Small regular screwdriver
• Spray bottle
• Pail or dish pan (to hold approximately 2 gallons of water)
• Lunch, drinks, and snacks

Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on weaving work.

Who Should Attend?

This workshop is ideal for:

• Traditional craft enthusiasts
• Basket-weaving students
• Folk art and heritage craft learners
• Gardeners and homesteading enthusiasts
• Anyone interested in functional, handcrafted baskets

Important Notes

• Hands-on basket weaving workshop
• Held in the Museum Store’s second-floor classroom
• One flight of stairs required
• All sales are final. No refunds
• Proceeds benefit Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum