We will begin small twined baskets made with a diminutive relative of tule (Schoenoplectus americanus) known as “sweetgrass” among native weavers in the Pacific Northwest. As well as being fragrant, it is strong and soft, and lends itself to a variety of weaving strokes.

Charlie Kennard of San Anselmo is a long-time basket weaver and student of California Indian and other traditional basketry techniques. He has taught for the Point Reyes Field Institute, East Bay Regional Parks Botanic Garden, the Laguna Center in Santa Rosa and in many schools and at teacher trainings. Tule boats made in his workshops can be seen at the California Academy of Sciences, the Bay Model in Sausalito, and another is in the collection of the Oakland Museum. You can also visit a basketry plant garden Charlie has created at the Marin Art and Garden Center in Ross, where he and friends have woven a basket 13 feet across. Charlie is active in native habitat restoration in Marin, managing several projects for Friends of Corte Madera Creek Watershed.

Registration required:  $130 / UCBG Members $120

Registration info: Register online or by calling 510-664-7606

Event Contact: CA, gardenprograms@berkeley.edu