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

Bonnie’s Baskets: “Bloom” Basket Workshop

July 7, 2026, 10:00 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 “Bloom” basket begins with a woven, filled base and features a classic D handle, making it both functional and decorative. Accent colors of chocolate brown, celery green, and gold bring warmth and charm to the design, while a sunflower adorning the front gives the basket its cheerful, garden-inspired character.

This eye-catching basket is perfect for seasonal decorating, gift giving, or displaying throughout your home.

What You'll Do

During this hands-on class, Bonnie will guide you step-by-step through creating your basket from start to finish. You'll learn how to set up and weave a filled base, build the basket’s structure, and incorporate decorative techniques that add both beauty and strength to the finished piece.

By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a completed “Bloom” basket and the confidence to continue exploring basket weaving techniques on your own.

You'll Learn:

• How to set up and weave a filled basket base

• Working with flat reed and round reed

• Creating a locking row for added structure

• Tucking spokes using the “chicken feet” method

• Using overlays for decorative detail

• Basket shaping and finishing techniques

What's Included

• All basket weaving materials including reed and decorative elements

• D handle and basket components

• Sunflower embellishment

• Hands-on instruction throughout the workshop

• Finished basket to take home

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 complete with candle and decorative accents

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.