The Archaeological Research Institute invited 65willows to teach a weaving class at their sweet facility in Lawrenceburg, IN. We chose a wreath class because space and time was limited.

But it also gave Abby Ahrens and I a chance to teach the decorations too. Not everyone has access to willow or the means to soak it when it’s 8-10 feet long. But most everyone can get their hands on corn husks.

We used traditional pale green sweet corn husks, but also brought husks from a variety called “Martian Jewel” that we grew in the summer of 2024 specifically for their deep purple husks.

The students were amazing. Funny and kind. And they made lovely wreaths and tassels and stars.