Stadium Basket Class

At the Historic Ramsey House, 2614 Thorn Grove Pike in Knoxville, Tennessee, the Stadium Basket Class offers a hands-on introduction to traditional basketry. Sheri Burns, a practicing nurse and former homeschool parent, leads the four-hour workshop with patient, step-by-step instruction; beginners are welcome and all tools and materials are provided. The class is limited to ten students, which keeps the pace deliberate and ensures hands-on coaching for rim stitching, handle setting, and shaping the finished piece.

You will learn to build a stadium basket — a low, sturdy carrier that is useful around the house and easy to personalize — while practicing basic weaving patterns and tool techniques. Beyond the craft, the setting matters: workshops take place inside the Historic Ramsey House, a local landmark that frames the work with quiet architectural character and accessible facilities. Sheri's approach has roots in regional storytelling; she learned basketry while teaching Appalachian history to her children and brings that practical, domestic perspective to the lessons.

Expect four hours of seated work, moderate hand strength, and patient repetition; the instructor recommends wearing comfortable clothes and bringing a container to safely transport your finished basket home. Pricing is $60 for Friends of Ramsey House members and $65 for non-members; the class is wheelchair accessible and refunds are not provided within 48 hours of the start time. This is a compact cultural detour for travelers who want to learn a practical Appalachian craft, leave with a handmade object, and spend a quiet half-day inside a distinctive local venue.

Spaces are small; book through the provided referral link to reserve one of ten seats and arrive ready to focus, learn, and carry home a piece you made with your own hands. Work begins with material prep: Sheri demonstrates how to select straight lengths, soak or condition flexible materials if needed, and set a stable base. Even when the vocabulary of ribs, spokes, and weavers feels new, the step-by-step repetition quickly builds confidence.

Students often comment that the first complete round — when the basket starts to take shape — is the most rewarding moment. The workshop accommodates beginners and adaptive needs; the venue is wheelchair accessible and the instructor tailors tasks to individual ability. Class size and timing create a focused learning environment, and the instructor keeps tools clean and organized for a safe, pleasant session.

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor in Knoxville, reserve a seat to learn a tangible regional craft and leave with an object that carries a story. Bring curiosity and willing hands; expect a slow, steady rhythm of work, friendly instruction, and a compact, satisfying creative day that contrasts with the usual outdoor itinerary. Book via the referral link online.