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

Bonnie’s Baskets: “Coaster Companion” Basket Workshop

July 12, 2026, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

$35 per person

Create a charming handmade basket in this fun and beginner-friendly weaving workshop led by Bonnie Rideout of Bonnie’s Baskets. This compact basket starts with a wooden slotted base and features a beautiful Moss Green accent color that adds a touch of natural elegance to the design.

Perfect for entertaining or everyday use, this basket includes a set of coasters, with a variety of coaster designs available for you to choose from. While the basket may be small, it’s packed with techniques that make it an enjoyable and rewarding project for weavers of all skill levels.

What You'll Do

During this hands-on class, Bonnie will guide you through each step of creating your basket, from weaving the wooden slotted base to adding decorative and structural elements that bring the finished piece together. Along the way, you'll learn several valuable basketry techniques that can be applied to future projects.

By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a completed basket, a set of coasters, and new weaving skills to continue your basket-making journey.

You'll Learn:

• How to weave using a wooden slotted base

• Twining techniques

• Decreased weaving for shaping

• Triple twining (3-rod wale)

• Step-up techniques for seamless pattern transitions

• Basket shaping and finishing methods

What's Included

• All basket weaving materials

• Wooden slotted base

• Moss Green accent materials

• Set of coasters (choose from a variety of designs)

• Hands-on instruction throughout the workshop

• Finished basket and coasters to take home

Who This Workshop Is For

• Beginning basket makers looking to build new skills

• Intermediate weavers wanting to practice advanced techniques

• Craft enthusiasts who enjoy creating functional handmade items

• Anyone looking for a fun and relaxing creative experience

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: $35 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.