Welcome to the North Georgia Basketry Guild
North Georgia Basketry
Welcome to the North Georgia Basketry Guild. Our organization provides weaving events for the Forsyth, Dawsonville, Dahlonega, and Hall communities in North Georgia. Whether you’re a seasoned Georgia basket maker or simply curious about the craft, you’ll find a warm, creative space here.
We host regular meetings for open weave and basket making events, all centered around enjoyment, learning, and connection. These gatherings are a wonderful way to bring the community together — offering the perfect chance to share techniques, pick up new skills, and enjoy the art of weaving alongside fellow enthusiasts.
Historical Context:
19th Century Weaving Traditions
From Loom to Basket: How Rural Georgia Women Shaped the Legacy of the Georgia Basket Maker Through Weaving, Dyeing, and Spinning.
These skills were essential for creating cloth and other textiles used in everyday life.
Basketry is one of the oldest known crafts, with a rich history dating back thousands of years.
Weaving is not just a craft; it’s a way to connect, foster relationships, preserve traditions, and promote well-being. In North Georgia, the North Georgia Basketry Guild exemplifies this communal spirit, uniting weavers and honoring the region’s rich basketry heritage.
Join the North Georgia Basketry Guild – A Home for Every Georgia Basket Maker to Weave Tradition and Creativity Together
Colonial and Early American Basketry
Practical Use
During the colonial period, basket weaving was a vital skill for settlers. Baskets were used for a variety of practical purposes, including carrying goods, storing food, and even as furniture2.
Materials
Early American baskets were often made from locally available materials such as willow, oak, and ash.
Revival and Modern Basketry
20th Century Decline and Revival: The rise of synthetic materials in the 20th century led to a decline in traditional basket weaving.
However, the craft saw a revival during the countercultural movement of the 1960s and ’70s, as people sought to reconnect with traditional crafts and sustainable practices.
Contemporary Practice
Today, basket weaving is both a functional craft and an art form. Many artisans and guilds across the country continue to preserve and innovate within this tradition, creating both traditional and contemporary designs
Cultural Significance
Art and Heritage
Basket weaving remains an important cultural practice, reflecting the diverse heritage of the United States. It is celebrated in museums, cultural centers, and through various craft fairs and workshops3.
