As a contemporary visual artist I've been exploring the traditional art of weaving with plant fibers since 1985. I gather materials respectfully, recycling bark off of trees that are being cut down, pruning selectively to encourage the growth and health of plants, and replanting at every opportunity. I enjoy sharing the lessons I've learned from my generous teachers.
Being a hands-on, low-tech type person, I will do my best to make weekly (or at least monthly) posts. I like writing about the making process, worthwhile community projects, and sharing practical ideas of what the seasons have to offer those who are longing to live creatively within the rhythms of the natural world.
Some old notes on Schoenoplectus Pungens – NW Sweetgrass
It’s wonderful if basket makers have the ability to grow the plants they love to weave with. Here’s a few tips I’ve learned from growing my own NW Sweetgrass. I found these old notes that I’d meant to post in 2024 hiding in my “drafts” folder. Sorry if much of this may be redundant.
Harvesting Homegrown Schoenoplectus Pungens
Here’s a few tips for growing and harvesting your own schoenoplectus pungens, or sweetgrass, for basketmaking.
Lissa Hunter’s Take Two Online Workshop
Some reflections after taking Lissa Hunter’s Take Two Online workshop last year, titled: Connecting-A Philosophy of Making With Lissa Hunter.
Ernestine Hayes – “Here We Are Together – Our Only Future Is a Future Together. As Humans.”
Ernestine Hayes is an Alaskan Native who shares her story in this brief, beautiful profile.
Healing Words – Human Values
It is repulsive that trump and his henches are allowed to murder citizens, destroy property, rip apart hard-working families. Everyone of those corrupt ice and border patrol thugs need to be held accountable from the top down…especially this president and his enablers.
Greetings – It’s 2026!
Here is an informative video of all the wonderful workshops being featured this April at Bainbridge Artisans Resource Network (BARN as part of the celebration of Craft 2026, or Handwork 2026.)
The Community Completes the Artist
We are grateful to live in a community that values and supports local artists and makers.
Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026 – Weaving Nature
I’m honored to be offering an intensive 5 day workshop at Bainbridge Artisans Resource Network as a part of Craft 2026.
Weaving Nature – Seasonal Gifts of Plants for Basketmaking
It’s been a busy fall gathering many of the plants we’ll be using in this workshop. I’m grateful to Jennifer Hemmingsen at Bainbridge Artisans Resource Network for putting together this article. Please be sure to click on “Handwork: Weaving traditions, stewardship and place with Melinda West” to view this article and links to registration and […]
Craft 2026 – Upcoming Workshop at Bainbridge Artisans Resource Network
I’m looking forward to leading a five day workshop at Bainbridge Artisans Resource Network as a part of Craft 2026.
Paper made from Equisetum Hymale
Another fun plant that makes a lovely art paper is scouring rush, in the Horsetail family.
Porch Papermaking with Polypore Fungi
Curious about making paper out of fungi? Let’s see how it goes….
