HILTON HEAD ISLAND WORKSHOP FIELD GUIDE
Hands-on Sweetgrass: Learn Gullah Basketry on Hilton Head Island
A two-hour workshop led by a Gullah basket sewer at the Coastal Discovery Museum where participants learn the history and begin a traditional Sweetgrass basket of their own.
Hands-on Sweetgrass: Learn Gullah Basketry on Hilton Head Island.
On Hilton Head Island, the Lowcountry’s sweetgrass tradition is more than craft—it's a living lineage. In this workshop a local Gullah basket sewer explains the history behind Sweetgrass baskets and guides participants through the steps of beginning their own piece using natural, locally sourced materials, offering a direct, tactile connection to regional culture and craftsmanship.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hands-on basket making
Participants begin a Sweetgrass basket under the guidance of a Gullah expert, working with natural materials to learn traditional techniques and form the foundation of a basket.
A lesson in Lowcountry heritage
The class includes context about the cultural and historical roots of Sweetgrass basketry, offering insight into why the craft is cherished in the region.
Start your own Sweetgrass basket
Beyond watching a demonstration, you’ll leave having started a personal basket—an object that ties a hands-on learning experience to the Lowcountry tradition.
What the day feels like
What the class feels like
The session moves from shared explanation to close demonstration to individual practice: an expert discusses the history and methods, demonstrates sewing and shaping, then assists each participant as they begin their own Sweetgrass basket using locally sourced materials.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this workshop suits—and who should take note.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The class runs for 2 hours.
The published rate is $80 per person; confirm scheduling with the Coastal Discovery Museum and verify the minimum participant requirement before booking.
No specific gear requirements are listed in the provided details; expect a studio-style, hands-on session led by the instructor.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Sweetgrass Basket Class?
The class lasts 2 hours.
What is the cost per person?
The published rate is $80 per person.
Is there a minimum number of participants required?
Yes. A minimum of 6 participants is required for the class to occur.
Is there an age minimum to participate?
Yes. The class is available to participants ages 7 and up.
Who leads the class?
A local Gullah basket sewer (expert) leads the workshop, covering history and demonstrating traditional techniques.
What will I create in the class?
You will learn about Sweetgrass baskets and start your own basket using locally found natural materials, with assistance from the instructor.