Adult Workshops
Plaited BARK BASKETRY
Sunday, November 9th
12 pm - 5 pm
$90 / participant
Ages 18+ (16+ with parent)
Location: Vulpes Outdoor Classroom, Bloomfield, NJ
Tree barks are an amazing basketry resource in our area. They are flexible, strong, plentiful and beautiful which makes them perfect for a wide range of basketry styles. With some fundamental techniques, they can be used to make beautiful vessels that will last generations.
Each student will be making their own plaited-style “berry basket”
We will also cover the identification, harvesting, storage, and preparation of the willow as well as the local trees and plants that are ideal for wicker-style basketry.
All tools and materials provided
Natural Dye
Workshop
Sunday, November 16th
TIME: 12 pm - 4 pm
$90 / participant (includes $10 material fee)
AGES: 18+ (16+ with parent)
Location: Vulpes Outdoor Classroom, Bloomfield, NJ
Learn how to make your own pigments and dyes from your natural surroundings! In this one day workshop, we will cover the basics (and not so basics) of natural dyes, material selection and preparation, eco-printing, mordants, the effects of time, heat, and pH through the creation of our own silk scarves, cotton bags, and wool thread. Participants are also welcome to bring their own 100% natural fiber garments to play with. Join us for a journey through the dazzling array of natural colors around us.
All tools and materials provided
Traditional Bow building
May 22nd - 25th (memorial day weekend)
Time: 10 am - 5 pm
$500 / participant, includes an Osage Orange bow stave ($150 value)
6 Spots Available
Ages 18+ (16+ with parent)
Location: Vulpes Outdoor Classroom, Bloomfield, NJ
Bow making is an essential survival skill. Making and shooting projectile points from a bendy stick allowed our ancestors to procure larger harvests of meat with less personal risk.
The art of bow building has advanced greatly since it’s conception, but the concepts remain the same. With some simple techniques, a bowyer is able to carefully remove wood from a selected log and turn it into a functional hunting tool that can last generations.
Not only that, but the bow itself is a powerful symbol of precision, self-sufficiency and artistry. Something shifts when you hold a finished self-bow in your hand…
In North America, our best choice is Osage Orange. This class will cover the proper harvesting, seasoning, storage, processing, shaping, tillering and finally shooting of a traditional self bow.
Not only will participants leave with a finished longbow, they will have the information and experience to continue their bowyer’s journey for many years.
All tools and materials provided.