Dear White Oak Basket Student,

Welcome. The objective of the White Oak Basketry class is to learn how to construct a traditional Appalachian style basket. You will learn to identify the white oak tree, how to split a tree down to usable material and you will construct a small to medium size basket.

It is not necessary to be an expert basket maker to enjoy this class, although experience will speed the actual weaving process. It will be very helpful if you have some knowledge of how to design and weave a basket.

Several tools should be brought with you to class and some will be provided.

Following is a list of tools each student should bring:

• sharp "whittling" or carving knife

• sharpening stone

• second knife with a 3 to 4 inch blade                   

• a punch

• sharp scissors                                           

• draw knife

• a protective apron, preferably leather (or piece of leather to lay across knee)

• cloth measuring tape

• axe (optional)                                                        

• fro (optional)

If you have a shaving horse please bring it if possible, although two will be on hand to share. I will also provide splitting wedges and a sledgehammer to use in splitting the tree.

The materials fee is $60 and is not included in your tuition. I supply the trees that we’ll use in learning the process of splitting a tree down to usable material for baskets.  In the past classes I’ve found it better for all involved if I pre-split a few trees and have suitable material available to make the basket that you’ll take home with you, mainly because not every white oak tree comes with a guarantee that its wood will be useable material.  Some trees are just bad news, I’ll explain in class. The materials fee covers the white oak you’ll use to construct your basket and is payable by check made out to Joe Gainer after class begins.

Video cameras and other recording devices are welcome although I am not photogenic. If you make millions from my instruction, at least remember me when the royalties begin to roll in.

Joe Gainer

62 Cherry Fork

Montrose, WV. 26283

joecgainer@yahoo.com or phone 304-637-0049

This class does require some strength in the hands and arms, and a good strong back. I've always said, “A lazy person won't make a second white oak basket.” Come prepared to get a little dirty. You might even perspire. Feel free to email me with questions.

I look forward to meeting you in class.  

Joe