Black ash basketry has been a passion of mine since 2019. What began as a curiosity into identifying the different plant and tree species around our property while on my daily hikes through the woods with our dogs, developed into years of self-taught skills and meditative practice in my peaceful workshop. Raised in Fredericton, I currently live in Carleton County, NB where I have planted my roots, raised three wonderful young men, and am happily "retired" with my husband.

The baskets are entirely handmade using black ash trees harvested on our property. With the help of my husband, the logs are cut into 6-8 foot lengths, stripped of their bark, and then pounded by hand lengthwise to peel off the individual growth rings in long strips.

After soaking the ash strips, I then split them again to reveal the silky-smooth inner layer used for weaving. Once the pounding, peeling, splitting, shaving and trimming is complete, I soak, dye, measure and cut the black ash to required width and length to prepare for weaving. I reserve the thicker outer growth rings, which I shave and sand smooth for use as handles and top rims.

Each basket is unique and weaved with care and attention to detail. The process produces a strong, durable basket without the use of any nails, hardware or glue. With proper care, a black ash basket can be passed on for generations and the wood ages beautifully. The wood determines the shape of the basket, I just listen.