Matt Tommey
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Want to Learn to Make Baskets
with Natural Materials?

​Let me help! "Matt Tommey, is a master at his craft, yet able to help beginners feel at ease & get started very quickly."  - Student

Online Basket Weaving Courses

If you want to learn basket weaving, then you're in the right place! Each of my online basket weaving classes below includes hours of up-close video instruction perfect for beginners or seasoned weavers. Whether this is your first time exploring natural basketry or you've been weaving baskets with vines, bark, and foliage for years, I promise you'll get a lot out of these online basket weaving classes.

Get all 3 courses and save big!

Accelerate your journey as you learn basket weaving by getting all three of my on-demand basket weaving classes for a significant discount. And remember, you get lifetime access to the courses via our website, so there's no rush!
Get the Bundle for $399 (Save $192!)
basket weaving classes, how to weave a basket, online basket weaving course
Normally, these classes are $197 individually - which is a great value considering the hours and hours of value students receive. However, when you purchase all 3 courses together at one time, we give you a $192 discount! It's almost like getting one course free! Click the button below to save now and start weaving.

"
Matt's classes are comprehensive and the bonus videos alone are worth taking them... best of all - his classes are fun!  I have a good time watching them and making the style of baskets he teaches.  So dive right in and enjoy yourself!" - Alison, a recent student
basket weaving classes, how to weave a basket

Twining with Soft Natural Materials

Inside this on-demand video course (accessible on any device 24/7/365), I’ll be showing you exactly how to:
  • Harvest materials like foliage, bark and vines from your garden or local forest
  • Prepare and store the natural materials you collect
  • Weave baskets using a simple, ancient technique called twining.
And the best part?  You can start making twined baskets within just a few days of watching the course without any basketry experience or expensive supplies or tools required!
After completing this course, you will have the confidence to harvest materials from your local area and the practical knowledge to start weaving beautiful baskets you can share with your friends and family, and enjoy for years to come.
"I can’t recommend these classes enough, especially for folks interested in using wild harvested materials. Extremely well-done videos and explanations." - Claire, a recent student
Find Out More & Get the Course Now!
basket weaving classes, how to weave a basket, bark basketPicture

Bark Basketry Basics

Imagine being able to confidently walk into your local forest and sustainably harvest bark you could use to make beautiful baskets for yourself, your friends and even for sale.

Inside this course, you'll learn how to
  • Harvest, prepare and store bark
  • Use a variety of simple hand tools to make the process easier and faster
  • Weave bark using simple techniques like plaiting, twill and twining. 

And the best part? You can start making bark baskets within just a few days of watching this course without any basketry experience or expensive supplies or tools needed.
"I am thoroughly enjoying learning from these courses. It surely beats getting frustrated and throwing things in the compost pile! But honestly, the most helpful has been Matt’s voice saying, “give yourself a little grace” and “keep rolling” - I find myself repeating them both to myself:) Grace was definitely missing from my weaving practice." - Heidi, a recent student
Find out more & get the course now!
basket weaving classes, how to weave a basket, rib basket

Rib Basketry Basics ​

Longing to create baskets out of vines you can harvest in your local area? Things like honeysuckle and grapevine, bittersweet, kudzu, english ivy and more? If so, this course will show you how. 

Inside this 25-lesson course you'll learn how to:
  • Harvest and prepare materials for weaving
  • Create 4 baskets, including the Egg Basket, Oriole Basket, Hen Basket, and Harvest Basket.
  • Weave beautiful lashings, including the God's Eye, 1/2 God's Eye, and 3-point lashing.
  • Insert Ribs to create unique and interesting shapes
  • Add whimsey and interest to your baskets with vines
  • And much more...

​And the best part? You can start making rib baskets within just a few days of watching this course without any basketry experience or expensive supplies or tools needed.
"I took his other basketry classes and learned so much, even having dabbled with making baskets prior. I am so excited for this rib basket class! He gives great instruction and is fun to watch! Great humor!" - Ann, a recent student
Find out more and get the course now!

What my students are saying...

"If you want to make great baskets, you have to learn from great basket makers and Matt Tommey is one. When he offered this course, "Twining with Soft Natural Materials", I hesitated (It's more than I usually would spend on an on-line course). However, this course turned out to be much more than I expected. I learned a lot, liked Matt's style of teaching and love the fact that you can go back and watch the lessons again. Would recommend it to anyone who wants to make great baskets."
​- V. Allen, Recent Student

"This course is incredibly inspiring!  Matt Tommey is a great artist, a generous teacher and a happy man!" - Sylvie, Recent Student

"I thoroughly enjoyed this course. The instructor, Matt Tommey, is a master at his craft, yet able to help beginners feel at ease & get started very quickly. And he is very focused and precise, yet has a light, gentle, and humorous manner. And his work is gorgeous, a pleasure to behold! I look forward to watching the lessons over and over!! (And I have been gathering various materials in my yard that I used to think were just pesky vines!" - Jenny, Recent Student

Get Your FREE Download: 7 Tips for Making Baskets from Natural Materials

To get on the mailing list for notification, please opt-in below. When you do, you'll receive my free PDF "7 Tips for Making Baskets from Natural Materials" as my gift to help you get started on your basket weaving journey.   **After you opt-in, be sure to check your SPAM and other email folders for the email containing the PDF download link.**
Basketry Artist Matt Tommey demonstrates how to weave a basketFeatured article on basketry artist, Matt Tommey in The Laurel of Asheville Magazine.
Unraveling the Art of Basket Weaving as You Embrace Tradition, Nature, and Creativity

In the symphony of artistic expression, few art forms resonate with the harmony of tradition, nature, and creativity as profoundly as basket weaving. This ancient craft, woven into the fabric of many cultures worldwide, continues to enchant and inspire. By intertwining natural materials like vines, bark, foliage and reeds into functional and decorative items, basket weaving offers a unique blend of artistic satisfaction and practical utility. This article aims to unfold the myriad benefits of learning to make baskets, especially using online basket weaving classes, and to encourage readers to discover the joy and fulfillment this art form can bring.

The Timeless Tapestry of Tradition
Basket weaving is not merely a craft; it's a historical dialogue that stretches back to the dawn of civilization. Across continents, from the reed baskets of ancient Egypt to the bamboo creations of East Asia, this art has been a testament to human ingenuity and resourcefulness. Learning to weave a basket is akin to unraveling the mysteries of our ancestors, understanding the intricacies of their daily lives, and preserving a crucial part of our cultural heritage.

Incorporating natural materials like vine and bark in basketry is not just about tradition but also about sustainability. These materials, often sourced from local environments, connect the weaver to their natural surroundings, offering a deeper appreciation of the resources provided by our planet.

Serenity in Every Strand
The rhythmic process of weaving, the methodical intertwining of materials, provides a therapeutic escape from the bustling digital world. It's a meditative practice that fosters mindfulness, focusing the mind on the task at hand and providing a break from the stresses of modern life. Many basket weavers find this art form emotionally rejuvenating, as it allows them to channel their energy into creating something beautiful and functional.

Eco-Friendly Creations
In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, basket weaving stands out as a sustainable craft. Utilizing invasive species like kudzu, honeysuckle, grapevine, and mimosa trees in basketry transforms a potential ecological nuisance into a resource. This practice not only helps control the spread of these plants but also promotes an eco-friendly approach to art. By creating beautiful baskets from these materials, weavers contribute to environmental conservation efforts in their unique way.

basketry artist matt tommey teaching basket weaving classesBasketry Artist, Matt Tommey in the studio teaching basket weaving classes.
Learn Basket Weaving
Beginning your journey to learn basket weaving can seem daunting at first, but with a little courage and the right teacher, you can absolutely be weaving your first baskets in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. With the right teacher and methodology, you'll be exploring the forest around your home in no time, ready to harvest natural materials for your own basketry creation. But it's not only a great hobby and pastime for those who love nature. It can also be a great way to share your love of creativity and nature with others by starting to sell your work.

From Hobby to Income

For those inclined towards entrepreneurial ventures, basket weaving offers the potential to turn a hobby into a source of income. The uniqueness of handcrafted baskets, each with its own story and character, appeals to a growing market of consumers who value artisanal over mass-produced goods. Vine baskets, bark baskets, rib baskets, and other natural baskets, with their rustic charm and durability, are especially popular. Selling these creations at local markets, online stores, or craft fairs can provide a rewarding way to earn extra income while doing something you love. That's how I started and before you knew it, my hobby and passion became my full-time income. 

Online Learning: Weaving Knowledge Across Borders
The advent of the digital era has revolutionized how we learn new skills, and basket weaving is no exception. Online basket weaving classes have made this ancient art accessible to a global audience. These courses offer numerous advantages:
  • Affordability: Often more cost-effective than in-person workshops.
  • Convenience: Learn from the comfort of your home, on your own schedule.
  • Access to Expertise: Direct interaction with experienced instructors.
  • Community Engagement: Connect with a global community of basket weavers.
  • Replayability: Ability to rewatch lessons to master intricate techniques.

Diversity in Materials and Techniques
Basket weaving is a diverse craft with a wide range of techniques and materials. Weaving with vines offers a flexible and robust medium for creating sturdy baskets. Bark weaving, on the other hand, provides a unique texture and finish, ideal for decorative pieces. Rib baskets, another popular style, feature a framework around which material is woven, allowing for creative and intricate designs.

A Community of Weavers
One of the most enriching aspects of basket weaving is the community it builds. Whether through online forums, social media groups, or local gatherings, basket weavers share a bond over their love for this craft. This community provides a platform for sharing knowledge, experiences, and encouragement, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.

Conclusion: Weave Your StoryBasket weaving is more than just a craft; it's an art form that tells stories, connects us to our heritage, and brings us closer to nature. Whether you're drawn to it for its historical significance, environmental benefits, therapeutic value, or potential for income, basket weaving offers a fulfilling and enriching experience. We encourage you to explore the world of basket weaving through online classes and join a community of creators who cherish this beautiful, meditative art form. So, grab some vines or bark and start weaving your story today!

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Copyright 2023 Matt Tommey | Tommey Capital LLC . All rights reserved.
Mailing Address: PO Box 1382 Lindale, Texas 75771
Studio Address:Private By Appointment Only
(404) 538-5173
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  • Home
  • Artist
    • Current Inventory
    • In the Studio
    • Your Personal Design
    • FAQs
    • Fireplace Mantel Sculptures
    • Wall Hangings
    • Tabletop & Pedestal
    • Woven Copper Fire Pit
    • Encaustic Art
    • Ikebana Baskets
  • Basket Weaving Classes
    • Wild Basketry
    • Starting a Basketry Garden
    • Basket Weaving Techniques
    • How to Make Baskets
    • How to Weave a Basket
    • Kudzu Vine
  • Contact
    • Privacy, Terms & Conditions
  • Blog
    • Press
  • Archives