Ancestral Weaving in Modern Hands: Join Cherokee Basketry Classes with Salix Renan (Muscogee/Cherokee)

Looking for a way to connect with creativity, community, and a slower rhythm of life? This summer, join Salix Renan (Muscogee/Cherokee) for a welcoming, hands-on workshop in Oklahoma-style round reed Cherokee basket weaving—a practice rooted in tradition, care, and connection to land.

🌿 What Makes This Style Unique

While many people associate Cherokee basketry with river cane or white oak from the Southeast, the Oklahoma-style round reed method grew out of adaptation and continuity.

After the forced relocation of Cherokee people to Indian Territory (now Oklahoma), traditional basket materials like river cane were no longer easily accessible. In response, Cherokee basketmakers began using round reed, a flexible and durable alternative that could be sourced locally.

This method represents a legacy of innovation and resilience—preserving the cultural significance of basketmaking through shifts in land and material, and continuing a practice that invites mindfulness, skill, and community-making.

✨ What You’ll Experience

Salix creates a calm, supportive environment where participants can learn basic techniques of round reed basketry and explore how weaving connects us to the land we’re on.

You’ll be guided step-by-step through making your own basket, while learning about:

• The origins of Oklahoma-style basketry

• How weaving practices shifted with relocation and resource changes

• The role of basketmaking as a cultural connector

• How weaving can become a meditative, land-centered practice

This class is beginner-friendly, and all materials are provided.

🧺 Workshop Details

• Facilitator: Salix Renan (Muscogee/Cherokee)

• Style: Oklahoma round reed Cherokee basket weaving

• Duration: 2–3 hours (depending on group size)

• Cost: $50 per person

• Group Size: 10 seats per session

• Community Support Tickets: 5 available per session at half price (first come, first serve)

• Scholarships: For additional support, email Salix.weaves@gmail.com

📅 Upcoming Class Dates

• July 3 @ 5:30 PM

• July 8 @ 11:00 AM

• July 31 @ 5:30 PM

• August 5 @ 11:00 AM

• August 12 @ 11:00 AM

🎟️ Reserve Your Spot

Seats are limited and fill quickly. Register now to join this meaningful, land-rooted experience.

Come sit in circle, work with your hands, and feel your relationship with the land expand.