From Field to Basket

The Craft of Haudenosaunee Sustenance

Field to Basket teaches participants the full process of traditional Haudenosaunee basketry, from pounding black ash logs to weaving functional baskets. The program is rooted in land-based learning, community connection, and the passing down of ancestral skills.

History

Black ash basketry is a longstanding Haudenosaunee tradition, with deep roots in function, family, and survival. For generations, our people have made utilitarian baskets—sifting baskets, corn washing baskets, winnowing trays, feast baskets, and pack baskets—that supported every part of our food system, from harvest to preparation. These baskets were not decorative, but essential tools used in daily life and ceremonies.

From Field to Basket began with pilot classes in 2023 and 2024, supported by funding from the Wisconsin Arts Board. These initial sessions allowed us to experiment with class formats, develop a sweat equity system, and refine a teaching model grounded in cultural responsibility. With strong community interest and guidance from experienced artists, the program grew into a more permanent offering.

Now funded by the First Nations Development Institute, From Field to Basket is led by Liandra Skenandore and Rae Skenandore, two highly respected Haudenosaunee basket makers whose work bridges traditional technique with modern relevance. Their leadership ensures that each class honors the full process from harvesting and pounding logs to weaving a basket with purpose and care.

Continuing this craftsmanship is more than preserving a skill. It protects our connection to the forest, reinforces our foodways, and teaches us to value the labor and knowledge behind everyday tools. Every basket reflects our living culture and the unbroken line of knowledge that has withstood displacement and erasure.

Meet The Instructors

Liandra Skenandore

Master Black Ash Basket Weaver

Rae Skenandore

Master Basket Weaver

Specializing in Black Ash, Sweet Grass, Willow, Cedar, Pine needles, and Birch

How It Works

Participation in From Field to Basket follows a structured process that reflects our values of community effort, hands-on learning, and cultural responsibility. This program is designed for community members ages 12 and up.

To take part in a basket-making class, you must first build up sweat equity hours. This system ensures that every participant contributes to the entire process, from raw materials to finished baskets.

Step-by-step:

Start by signing up for a log pounding session.

In these sessions, we process raw black ash logs into splints. This work is essential and labor-intensive, and it builds the foundation of your sweat equity.

Each hour of log pounding counts toward your sweat equity.

You’ll need to complete a set number of hours before you are eligible to register for a class. For example, a corn washing basket requires 6 hours of log pounding.

You cannot sign up for a basket-making class without completing the required sweat equity hours.

No exceptions are made. This honors the full cycle of the craft and the collective effort behind each basket.

Once your hours are complete, you may register for a class.

You'll be guided by experienced Haudenosaunee basket makers and learn to create a functional basket such as a sifter, corn washing basket, or market basket.