Art at the Farm: Basket Weaving with Bonnie's Baskets

Bonnie’s Baskets: “Warm & Cozy” Basket Workshop

May 12, 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

$55 per person

Create a beautiful handmade basket in this hands-on weaving workshop led by Bonnie Rideout of Bonnie’s Baskets. The “Warm & Cozy” basket begins with a wooden slotted base and features warm, earthy accent colors of rust, tan, and moss green—perfect for adding a cozy, decorative touch to your home.

Complete with a battery-operated candle and berries, this basket is both a functional and seasonal piece—making it a favorite among Bonnie’s students.

What You'll Do

During this hands-on class, Bonnie will guide you step-by-step through creating your basket from the base up. You'll learn how to work with a wooden slotted base, build structure through weaving, and incorporate decorative techniques that bring the design to life.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a finished basket, complete with candle and embellishments, and the skills to continue weaving on your own.

You'll Learn:

• How to weave using a wooden slotted base

• Twining techniques

• Start/stop weaving methods

• Using overlays for decorative detail

• Basket shaping and finishing techniques

What's Included

• All basket weaving materials including reed and decorative elements

• Wooden slotted base

• Battery-operated candle and berries

• Hands-on instruction throughout the workshop

• Finished basket to take home

Note: The candle requires (3) AAA batteries, which are not included.

Who This Workshop Is For

• Beginner basket makers wanting to learn foundational techniques

• Intermediate weavers interested in expanding their skills

• Craft enthusiasts looking for a creative hands-on experience

• Anyone interested in traditional basketry and handmade crafts

About Your Instructor

Bonnie Rideout wove her first basket in 1994 and quickly became hooked. What began as a passion grew into a full-time career when she launched Bonnie’s Baskets in 2006. As her business expanded, Bonnie built a dedicated workshop on her property and began designing her own basket patterns.

In 2018, she left her “regular” job to focus on Bonnie’s Baskets full-time. Bonnie has taught basketry in 18 states and continues to travel and share her craft with basket makers across the country.

Learn more at www.bonniesbasketsil.com or find Bonnie on Facebook and Instagram.

Event Details

What to Bring: Just yourself—all materials provided

Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate

Takeaway: A finished woven basket ready to display or use

Location: Prairie Fruits Farm Classroom

4410 N Lincoln Ave, Champaign, IL

Parking: General parking is available in the gravel lot. ADA parking is located south of the farmhouse. The classroom is in the white building with black trim west of the gardens. Check in at the farm store at the front of the building.

Tickets: $55 per person

By attending, you consent to your image being used in Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery marketing, social media, and publications. Please notify the photographer if you prefer not to be photographed.