Esparto weekend with Simone Simmons

About Esparto:

Esparto (stipa tenacissima) is a native feather grass growing in the south of
Spain and Portugal and in the north of Africa. Besides being a useful plant for
fighting against erosion and desertification of the land, esparto is an excellent
and inspiring material for the creation of all sorts of objects. The esparto fibre is
very tough, flexible and water resistant.

Traditionally the main technique used, in a huge variety of baskets and other
objects, is braiding; diagonal and continuous braiding. In the course we will
learn to braid “pleitas”, long bands in different widths, using 3 up to 15 bundles
in the diagonal braiding technique. Next step is learning to sew the bands
together with a needle and string with the so-called invisible stitch and other
stitching techniques, to transform them into a basket/bag or another desired
piece. Last step is learning how to make and attach handles and edgings.
Everyone can make, up to a certain level, their own decisions around the
form and volume of the piece and the kind of handles and edgings.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

• 2 days tuition

• All materials for the course

• Delicious lunches in Annemarie and Tom’s home

• Tea, coffee and snacks throughout each day

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

• Accommodation whilst on the course