
Ronda Cassada started weaving baskets as a way to make some extra money when her children were small. Over the last 25 years, she’s continued weaving and started teaching friends and family. Today, she shares her experience by teaching others at Ronda W. Cassada Basketry in Asheville. As a native of Western North Carolina, Ronda derives great pride in sharing the time-honored tradition of basket weaving with others.
Each class is structured for a beginner to have an enjoyable learning experience in a group setting. Participants follow along with a simple pattern, measure, and cut their own weaving splints, then weave a basket accordingly. The final basket weave will vary according to each participant, but Ronda gives three hours of on-going verbal instruction in each class.
All students leave with a completed basket. Each class demonstrates a different technique used in basket weaving. Various wicker reeds, handles, and patterns are on exhibit around the classroom space to showcase traditional forms and techniques.
Class Hours: 10 am – 1 pm on selected Fridays or Saturdays.