A Week of Weaving Wonder: Recap of the Texas Basket Weavers Association “With Our Hands” Conference (2026)
Every so often, a basketry conference reminds us why this craft has endured for generations: the learning is hands-on, the community is generous, and the inspiration follows you home long after the last rim is lashed.
This year, basket enthusiasts gathered for the Texas Basket Weavers Association (TBWA) annual conference, “With Our Hands,” held January 22–25, 2026—four days packed with instruction, creativity, and the kind of shared knowledge you can’t fully replicate through books or videos. tbwa_conference_recap
For North Georgia Basketry members and readers who couldn’t make the trip, here’s a recap of what stood out—and why events like this matter for the future of basketry.
Four Days of Intensive Learning (Beginner to Advanced)
At the core of the TBWA conference was what basketmakers value most: deep learning time. The schedule offered classes for first-time weavers all the way through advanced makers refining precision techniques.
What made the instruction feel “conference-level”
- Half-day and full-day formats that allowed true skill-building (not just a quick demo). tbwa_conference_recap
- Small class environments where troubleshooting and hands-on coaching could happen in the moment. tbwa_conference_recap
- A balance of traditional forms and contemporary experimentation—so every weaver could find their lane and still be stretched creatively. tbwa_conference_recap
Themes that consistently draw weavers in
The recap highlighted several “evergreen” class themes that basketmakers gravitate toward year after year:
- Traditional techniques revived (heritage patterns, historical forms) tbwa_conference_recap
- Natural materials (harvesting, preparing, and weaving with materials that connect us to place) tbwa_conference_recap
- Contemporary innovation (new materials, sculptural work, pushing the definition of “basket”) tbwa_conference_recap
- Skill builders (handles, rims, precision, tension—skills that elevate every project) tbwa_conference_recap
The Competition: A Gallery of Excellence
One of the most inspiring parts of any conference is seeing what’s possible. TBWA’s competition showcased basketry excellence across multiple categories—celebrating both high tradition and bold creativity.
Categories included traditional and contemporary work, natural materials, miniatures, wearable art, functional baskets, and a youth division—an important signal that the next generation is welcome in the craft.
The Marketplace: A Weaver’s Happy Place
Basketry conferences are also where many weavers restock and discover new materials. TBWA’s marketplace featured the essentials—materials, tools, patterns, and books—along with those unique finds that spark a new direction in your weaving.
For many attendees, the marketplace isn’t just shopping—it’s material education: seeing fibers up close, comparing options, learning what’s worth trying next.
The Real Magic: Community and Knowledge Exchange
Beyond the formal schedule, conferences thrive because of what happens between classes: quick technique tips in hallways, shared problem-solving at lunch, and the encouragement that turns “I’m not sure I can do this” into “I’m going to try.”
That community effect matters—especially for a craft that can feel solitary when you’re weaving at home.
Bring the Conference Spirit Home
Even if you didn’t attend TBWA this year, the takeaway is clear: conferences accelerate growth because they combine immersion + instruction + community. The best part? That momentum doesn’t have to end when the conference ends—you can recreate the spirit locally by trying a new technique, connecting with weavers, and sharing what you learn.
