Birch bark workshop offered at Matanuska Experiment Farm

The University of Alaska Fairbanks is offering a birch bark weaving workshop at the Matanuska Experiment Farm Tuesday, Oct. 7 from 3 to 9 p.m.

John Zasada, retired silviculturist with the U.S. Forest Service of Alaska, is the instructor. A master bark weaver, Zasada has been teaching birch bark classes for over a decade. He teaches at North House Folk School in Minnesota.

Working with birch bark is fun!

Participants will learn how to weave birch bark to make a beautiful, functional wall basket. No prior experience is necessary but students are advised to come ready to learn and bring plenty of patience, as well as scissors, spring-type clothespins and a knife. Snacks will be available.

The farm is located at 1509 S. Georgeson Drive, Palmer.

The fee is $40 and a maximum of eight students will be accepted. Register here or contact Valerie Barber, 907-746-9466.