Basket Weaving: Divided Basket Workshop

Sunday, June 7, 2026
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (EDT)

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

Tuition:
$90.00 – $100.00

Click Here to Register

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

🧺 Learn How to Create a Traditional Divided Basket

The Basket Weaving Divided Basket Workshop at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum teaches students how to construct and install a woven divider within a handcrafted basket using traditional basket-weaving techniques.

Divided baskets have long been valued for their practicality and versatility. Historically used for carrying eggs, sewing supplies, tools, produce, and household items, these baskets combine functionality with craftsmanship. The interior divider creates separate compartments, allowing fragile or organized items to be transported more safely and efficiently.

In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn:

• How to weave a basket divider
• Structural techniques for installing dividers securely
• Methods for maintaining basket balance and stability
• Traditional weaving patterns and finishing techniques
• Techniques for shaping and reinforcing the basket form

The divider itself becomes both a structural and decorative element within the basket, requiring precision and careful craftsmanship. Students will receive step-by-step instruction throughout the process, gaining valuable skills that can be applied to future basket-weaving projects.

The Basket Weaving Divided Basket Workshop is ideal for students interested in expanding their basketry knowledge beyond basic forms. The workshop emphasizes practical craftsmanship while introducing techniques that add complexity and utility to handmade baskets.

Participants will work with traditional basket-weaving materials and methods, learning how thoughtful construction affects the function and durability of the finished basket. Individual guidance will be provided throughout the class to ensure students understand each stage of the weaving and divider installation process.

The workshop is taught by Joan Betzold, an accomplished 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 original baskets using centuries-old techniques without nails, glue, staples, or molds. She is widely recognized for her award-winning custom basket designs and unusual creations incorporating vintage tools, heirloom objects, antlers, and other unique materials.

In addition to teaching basket-weaving workshops at museums and private venues 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 traditional craft community.

This full-day workshop runs from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, providing participants with the time needed to learn, practice, and complete their divided basket project.

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:

• Basket-weaving students seeking advanced techniques
• Folk art and traditional craft enthusiasts
• Students interested in functional basket design
• Returning basket-weaving participants

Important Notes

• Hands-on 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