Connect with the seasonal plants around you through exploration
of the art of weaving

Nature weaving is a unique and meditative practice that allows women to connect with nature in a unique and meaningful way. Similar to making a mandala out of gifts found in the forest, this act involves using materials gathered from the forest floor to create beautiful weavings on pre-set looms.

We will start our time together with a grounding meditation followed by a foraging forest bathing walk, paced with mindful prompts designed to deepen your connection with nature. During this experience, you will collect materials like fallen leaves, twigs, feathers, grasses, and various natural objects. These materials will then be used to create different patterns and designs on a loom made from branches. As you carefully intertwine each element, you are also weaving together your own thoughts and energy, creating a unique expression of your connection with nature.

The act of weaving in nature allows women to slow down, become one with their surroundings, and create something beautiful with their hands. By weaving mantras or intentions into their work, individuals can infuse their creations with positive energy and meaning. Additionally, this practice encourages us to appreciate the beauty and resources that nature provides us with.

As the weavings are left in the forest (or you can take them with you) as a thank-you gift to Mother Nature, they slowly change and decay with the seasons, becoming part of the natural cycle of life, a reminder that everything is constantly evolving and adapting, and it encourages us to let go of attachments and embrace our ever-changing world.

This three-hour workshop offers numerous benefits, including stress relief, mindfulness, connection with nature, and creative expression. No experience is needed to participate – all supplies are included for a truly immersive experience.

At Friends of the Forest, our goal is to reconnect individuals with nature through various activities and experiences like this beautiful forest weaving workshop. We believe that by immersing ourselves in the natural world, we can find peace, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the ecosystem.

So, join us for an afternoon of relaxation and creativity as we learn the art of forest weaving. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process, providing guidance to create a one-of-a-kind weaving using materials found on our forest bathing walk. You'll have the opportunity to collect your own natural materials or choose from our curated selection.

What You Can Expect

• A thoughtful, meditative afternoon in nature with like-minded women. Our workshop will begin with a gentle forest bathing session, led by our certified guide, to help you connect with the natural world and clear your mind. Then, we'll move on to the art of forest weaving, where you'll learn techniques for creating unique patterns and incorporating different materials into your creation.

• During the workshop, our experienced instructor will guide you through the process of creating your own unique weaving using natural materials found in the forest. You'll learn basic weaving techniques such as twining, coiling, and braiding to create a beautiful weaving.

• We will create our weavings while sitting fireside up at our sacred bonfire spot, with the sounds of the forest surrounding us. Brenda, our weaving guide, will be there to provide support and answer any questions you may have along the way.

• All materials for the weaving will be provided, including a loom and various natural materials such as leaves, grasses, and feathers. However, we encourage you to bring your own found treasures from nature if you'd like to incorporate them into your piece.

• Attendees will have the opportunity to embed a crystal, chosen from a specially curated selection, into their creations, symbolizing their aspirations for spring.

• No previous weaving or crafting experience is necessary - this workshop is designed for beginners and experienced weavers alike. We encourage you to let your creativity flow and embrace imperfection in your work. With each piece being made from natural materials found in the forest, no two weavings will be the same, making yours truly one-of-a-kind.

• We will conclude our gathering in Circle by enjoying a seasonal herbal tea and engaging in a sharing circle. Additionally, we will allocate time for journaling or personal reflection.

• Just bring your enthusiasm and a love for nature.

• Limited to 12 women

• 3-hour workshop

• $50 investment

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:

• An exploration of weaving

• Appropriate materials and equipment for this practice

• Various methods of creating a loom from scratch, along with how to warp a traditional lap loom

• Techniques involved in weaving, and specifically those using nature’s materials

• Seasonal plant signs and introduction to plants found within and around the area

• Foraging best practice and safety considerations

WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE:

• Guidance on the art and function of weaving

• All finished works are yours to keep

• All required loaned tools (snips, loom, board, sundry materials, gloves)

• An insight and built connection with the local environment and seasonal planting

Your Guides

Brenda Vynalek, the talented owner of Missing Manes, is a skilled weaver. Her expertise lies in hand-weaving and braiding horse hair to craft exquisite and everlasting memorial pieces. Brenda's passion for weaving and creating blossomed during her childhood, leading her to embrace the use of natural fibers in her art. From horsehair and feathers to leaves and vines, she finds joy in incorporating these elements into her work. By harnessing the energies of natural fiber sources with intention, Brenda crafts objects that radiate peace and harmony, bringing solace to those who appreciate them. Her repertoire includes a diverse range of techniques, and she firmly believes that true freedom is found through exploration. The possibilities are endless when you discover the artistry that can be achieved with sticks, stems, and grasses.

Kathleen Lowe holds certification as a Mindful Outdoor Guide from the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership program and the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs. Her walks adhere to the standardized sequence prescribed by the ANFT, which is backed by an evidence-based framework. This framework, developed by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, aims to enhance wellness and nurture the health of individuals, communities, and the natural world through guided immersive walks in forests and other natural settings.

This method is rooted in the Japanese tradition of Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), ecotherapy, and the Way of Council. It is a guided sensory experience that supports participants in deepening their connection with the natural world and themselves. The practice has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, boost immune function, and improve overall well-being. By slowing down and engaging with nature through the senses, we can tap into our innate ability to heal and find peace.