Handmade Black Ash baskets were once as common and important as the potatoes, corn and berries they carried. Replaced today by commercially mass-produced containers, quality ash baskets and their makers are becoming rare. Fortunately, great artists continue to share their knowledge of this thousand year-old craft. Native Americans were probably the first to make use of the Black Ash tree in this way.
The Black Ash tree, also known as "Swamp Ash," is found in rare pockets of cool bottomland spanning from the Great Lakes, east to Maine, and from Virginia north through Canada, where some of the oldest weavers still practice.Like many native ceremonies and traditions, this craft can only truly be learned first hand. There are many books on basket making but locating the "basket tree" and finding the baskets within takes experience and intuition found only in the heart and mind of a teacher.
I learned this traditional technique and more during my six year apprenticeship with master basket maker Jonathan Kline of Trumansburg, New York. Utilizing this knowledge, I continue a weave that was started long ago.
All of the materials used are processed with simple hand tools and traditional methods. Each basket splint is hand pounded, cut, shaved, and shaped to ensure the uniqueness and quality of every basket. The process of creating weaving splints from the Black Ash tree is as much an art as the basket making itself.
Adirondack style pack baskets and strapped carriers are my specialty. Quality bridle leather and brass fittings are used to make the harnesses on these baskets. Each work is as sturdy as it is beautiful. The baskets are treated with a blend of citrus and linseed oils. This helps to protect their heirloom quality.
I am honored to be a part of this tradition,
