From the Peach State to the Lone Star State: Inspiration from the 2026 Texas Basket Weavers Conference
While our roots are firmly planted in the red clay of North Forsyth, the spirit of weaving knows no borders. This month, members of the basketry community gathered in the heart of Texas for the Texas Basket Weavers Association (TBWA) 2026 Conference, and the energy was nothing short of electric.
For a young organization like North Georgia Basketry, looking to the TBWA—an association established in 2011—provides a masterclass in how tradition and modern community-building can intertwine.
A Tradition of Excellence
The TBWA banner, featuring its iconic Texas-flag basket, stood tall as a symbol of over a decade of craftsmanship. The 2026 theme, “Stars of Weaving,” set a high bar for excellence, bringing together master instructors and eager students for several days of immersive learning.
A Tradition of Excellence: Why the TBWA 2026 Conference Matters
The TBWA, established in 2011, is a beacon for the Southeast basketry community. Their 2026 theme, “Stars of Weaving,” showcased the highest level of traditional weaving skills.
One of the most inspiring segments was the Members Showcase. It highlighted the “Job to be Done” for today’s crafter: meditative hobbies that result in beautiful, functional art.
The “Members Showcase”: A Gallery of Talent
One of the most inspiring segments of the event was the Members Showcase. From intricate, multi-colored reed patterns to natural materials that highlight the “Slow Craft” movement, the diversity of work was staggering.
What was particularly encouraging for our NGB strategic plan was the dedicated “New Weaver” section. Seeing high-quality work from those just beginning their journey proves that our goal of attracting a younger, “Modern Maker” demographic is not only possible but thriving across the Southeast and Southwest.
The Members Showcase featured everything from traditional reed work to experimental fiber arts.
Evidence that the next generation of weavers is here: The “New Weaver” showcase.
Learning in the “Grand Ballroom”
The scale of the conference was a sight to behold. A massive ballroom filled with hundreds of weavers—ranging from “Legacy” masters sharing decades of wisdom to “Modern Makers” recording time-lapse reels for social media—created a unique hum of productivity.
Whether it was mastering the tension on a flat woven seat or the complex geometry of a colorful market basket, the focus remained on the “Job to be Done”: the meditative, tactile joy of creating something by hand.
A full house: Hundreds of weavers gathered to hone their skills under the “Stars of Weaving” theme.
Mastering the grid: A weaver displays the precise geometry of a flat-weave project.
Bringing the Texas Spirit to North Forsyth
The takeaway for us at North Georgia Basketry is clear: Community is the strongest weave. Seeing the smiles and the shared pride in a finished piece—like the vibrant, patterned baskets held by attendees Kimberly and her fellow weaver—reminds us why we do what we do.
The best part of any conference? The connections made between weavers.
Why This Matters for Georgia Weavers
At North Georgia Basketry, we love spotlighting conferences that keep basketry vibrant nationwide. TBWA’s annual gathering is a strong example of how a guild can blend heritage + innovation + hospitality—and create an experience that strengthens weavers at every level.
How North Georgia Basketry is Bringing the Texas Spirit to Forsyth County
We are taking these insights back to Cumming, GA. Whether you are looking for beginner basketry workshops or an advanced weaving conference, NGB is your local hub for the slow craft movement.
Join the North Georgia Weaving Community
As we look toward our own quarterly weaving events and our upcoming biannual conference, we invite you to experience the tactile joy of this heritage craft.
Inspired to start your own project? Join us for our next interactive session in North Forsyth. Let’s weave the future together.
