Basket making and Gourd art classes to be held Aug. 2

The Misti Washington Gourd and Basket Guild presents its annual “Class Day” to be held Sunday, Aug. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p,m. The basket and gourd art classes will be held at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation, 1580 Cannon Rd, Carlsbad, 92008, where there is ample free parking. Most classes will be outside with ocean breeze. Students will be spaced out and masks required.

Class fees includes all materials.

Coiling on a Gourd with Grace Swanson — $55

Students will learn to coil on a gourd including coiling around embellishment and adding beads to the coil. Students should bring: (battery operated) drill with 1/16 inch bit. Instructors will have one to loan if needed. Provided by instructor: gourd, (approx. 7 x 7 x 7) pine needles, beads, Irish waxed linen, dye, gloves, sewing needles, and beads. Choice of embellishments provided.

Lauhala Tissue Box (includes a box of tissues) with Sue Kamin — $55

Learn how to prepare Lauhala (pandanus leaf) for weaving. This plant is common in Hawaii and the South Pacific. Learn the technique of plaiting with lauhala. Tools students will need to bring to class: scissors, paring knife, spray bottle, old large and small towels. A light could be helpful, and magnifying glasses, if necessary.

Knotless Netting with Polly Giacchina — $35

Learn the looping technique that can form around many shapes. Experiment making samples with both soft and hard materials. Provided: waxed linen, wire, different simple forms.

Tools to share, tapestry needles. Students bring: (if you have them) small scissors, small wire cutters, needles nose pliers and your own special colors of waxed linen

Latch Twining a Small Basket with Willie Ziegler — $25

Technique is latch twining, approx. 3” x 3”. Made from paper rush, waxed linen and beads.

Two options available, both with the same materials and techniques. Students bring: small packing tool.

To reserve a space in the class of your choice, contact Polly Giacchina at pollyjg4@gmail.com. Students will pay the teacher directly on class day, so be sure to bring cash or a check made out to the instructor.

Bring your own lunch.

Misti Washington Gourd and Basket Guild members represent all levels of interest in basket and gourd making — beginners, professionals, hobbyists and collectors. All share a common fascination for handmade vessels and sculptural objects — whether ornamental or utilitarian — and for the natural fibers and manufactured materials used in their construction. Their goal is to preserve, promote and perpetuate the appreciation of gourd and basket art by providing a supportive, sharing and educational environment. The guild meets on the first Sunday of every month from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information go to baskets-gourds.com/classes