F.A.Q

Beginner - have made fewer than 5 willow or bark baskets on your own (not in a class).

Intermediate - have made 5 or more willow or bark baskets on your own (able to make a round base, rand, wale, etc.) but may need help with shaping, borders, etc.

Advanced - confidently able to make a wide variety of basket types without support.

Weaving isn't particularly a dirty activity, however the willow has been soaked for some time prior to your class and it can have a residue and a bit of an odour. Please choose clothing with this in mind! Additionally, closed-toed shoes are required for all classes, safety glasses are optional.

If you have your own tools (sharp secateurs, awls, rapping irons, etc.) and can conveniently bring them, you are encouraged to do so. Otherwise tools will be provided on a shared basis. 

Workshops will take place indoors in a temperature-controlled space. If you tend to feel chilly, you may wish to bring a sweater or light jacket. Note - some classes may wish to work outside so consider sunblock, a hat and layered clothing.

We also recommend bringing a water bottle and any snacks you may wish to have during the day. Tea and coffee will be provided. Lunch will be available for purchase (more info to come) or you may bring your own.

Lunch is not included in the ticket price. Box lunches will be available for pre-purchase, or participants are welcome to bring their own lunch and snacks.

There are no restaurants within close proximity to the venue, and the workshop schedule does not allow enough time to leave the venue for lunch. We recommend bringing a packed lunch or pre-ordering a box lunch so you can enjoy your break without missing any of the workshop.

Regardless of your lunch plans, please bring a reusable water bottle. Complimentary coffee and tea will also be available throughout the day.

Weaving requires a reasonable amount of hand strength, grip, and dexterity. Participants with arthritis, repetitive strain injuries, or other inflammatory conditions affecting the hands, wrists, arms, or shoulders may find some techniques difficult or uncomfortable.

Some workshops also involve periods of standing while weaving. We encourage participants to consider their comfort level and physical abilities when selecting a workshop. If you have specific concerns, please contact us before registering and we will do our best to help you determine whether a workshop is a good fit.

Registration for the Three-Day Workshops must be completed in advance of the festival. Day-of registration will not be available for these workshops.

Availability of same-day registration for Festival Day workshops is still being determined and will be announced closer to the event.

No. The Three-Day Workshops run concurrently during the same hours, so participants may only register for one of these workshops. Depending on availability and scheduling, you may be able to attend an additional workshop on Festival Day.

Yes, for personal use, with permission. We ask that participants be respectful of instructors and fellow weavers when taking photos or videos. Some instructors may request that certain portions of their teaching not be recorded. Please obtain permission before taking close-up photos or videos of other participants and instructors.

To ensure a positive experience for all participants, only registered attendees are permitted in workshop spaces. Workshop areas have limited capacity, and restricting access helps minimize distractions and allows instructors and participants to focus on the learning experience.

No. All workshops are designed for adult participants and are suitable for individuals 18 years of age and older.

We recommend using the willow provided by your instructor. This ensures you have the appropriate materials for the project and allows the workshop to proceed smoothly and consistently for all participants. 

No. Pets are not permitted on the premises in accordance with the venue owner/operator's policies. Service animals are welcome where required by law.

We're currently exploring options for vendors to attend the festival. While details have not yet been finalized, we hope to have one or more merchants offering willow, tools, and other weaving-related supplies. Please check back for updates as the event approaches.

Festival Day (Sunday, September 19) will feature a number of shorter workshops and demonstrations.  These will be available for booking closer to the time. There will be a general admission fee for Festival Day participants who are not registered for the full Canada Weaves event. Short classes will require additional fees. Of course there will be lots to see and do even if you don’t register for a small workshop.

Yes. Festival Day will feature vendors, and we anticipate having demonstrations throughout the day. Additional details will be announced as plans are finalized.

Yes. Washroom facilities are available on site for participants and visitors.

Details coming soon.

Yes. Parking is available on site at no additional cost.

No. Parking and camping for RVs and trailers is not available on site.

There are lots of hotels/motels, Airbnb and campground options in the area. We are looking into getting a preferred rate at a hotel - stay tuned. Please note that our event is happening on a busy weekend in town, so you will want to book early.

The nearest major airport is Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Go Train stations: Stouffville GO Station: 6176 Main St, Whitchurch-Stouffville (approx. 25-35 km south)

Mount Joy GO Station: 180 Bur Oak Ave, Markham (approx. 30-40 km south) both stations are roughly a 25 to 35-minute drive or taxi ride to the hill, as there are no direct bus routes from these stations all the way to the venue

While we aren’t able to offer discounted tickets, we do plan on a participant-sponsored bursary. Stay tuned for more details.

In the unlikely event that a workshop is cancelled, registered participants will be notified as soon as possible and will receive a full refund. In the event a specified teacher cannot attend we will either find an alternative teacher to teach the class or we will refund you in full.

There will be opportunities for volunteers as the event draws closer. If you would like to be involved, please reach out to us at canadaweaves@gmail.com and we will keep your name ready for opportunities that come up.

Feel free to reach out to us at canadaweaves@gmail.com