Basketry School

Photo: Žiga Lovšin/Rokodelski Center Ribnica

In the basketry course, you will explore all phases of traditional basketry – from sourcing wood in nature, proper storage and material preparation with basic tools, to the actual weaving into a functional final product. Over four sessions, you will develop practical hand skills, an understanding of natural materials, and a creative approach to design.

The course is intended for anyone interested in working with natural materials, preserving traditional knowledge, and craft as a sustainable and relaxing activity.

Especially welcome:

• young creators and designers,
• craftspeople and artisans,
• older participants who want to reconnect with manual skills,
• nature lovers and those who enjoy working with wood.

The program is suitable for beginners and anyone wishing to deepen existing skills.

Session 1: Introduction to Basketry
– Viewing examples of basketry products
– History of basketry in Slovenia
– Overview of tools and materials
– Material preparation

Session 2: Making an Ash Split
– Proper preparation and creation

Session 3: Preparing Wooden Parts of the Basket (Base)
– Making the basket base
– Cutting, drilling, and sanding

Session 4: Finishing the Basket
– Weaving the basket
– Completing the product

What is an ash split?

It is a thin, flat strip of ash wood, created through precise splitting and peeling of ash branches. It is a fundamental element in traditional basketry, used for weaving baskets, bowls, and other functional or decorative items due to its flexibility and durability. Producing ash splits requires special knowledge, patience, and a good sense of the material.

Course dates:
6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th November 2025
Time: 16:00–20:00

Prior knowledge: None required

Mentor:
Janko Marinč is a teacher at the Secondary School in Kočevje, teaching woodworking. His passion for wood and cultural heritage led him into the world of basketry – he completed a three-year basketry school at the Rokodelski Center Ribnica and earned an NPK basketry certificate at the Pomelaj cooperative. He frequently works as a demonstrator and mentor at fairs and workshops in Slovenia and abroad. His specialty is ash splits, from which he weaves baskets of various shapes and bread or fruit bowls – some of which have an Art & Craft certificate.

Courses costing over €100 can be paid in two installments. Payment in two installments is possible in the “Made in Rog” shop or via bank transfer upon invoice, if you write to tajnistvo@center-rog.si.

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Participants should gather 15 minutes before the scheduled start time in the entrance hall of Center Rog.
Please store your personal belongings in the lockers provided by the mentor. Do not be late, as this disrupts the workflow. Entry to the lab cannot be guaranteed in case of lateness.

The program is conducted in Slovenian.
In case of cancellation, we will inform you two days before the scheduled start.
If you cannot attend, fees are non-refundable and the date cannot be changed. Participation can be transferred to another person – please notify us at least 24 hours before the start via email: les@center-rog.si