FibreWorks Studio & Gallery had the privilege of presenting eight classes of pine needle basket weaving by Hattie Olsen. Hattie’s storytelling teaching style provided the students with a relaxed learning environment as they created their individual containers. Her stories of making her first basket — gathering pine needles in the Lillooet area, the support of her husband, Richard, in cleaning, sorting, and storing of needles — were woven into her instructions and tips in creating the baskets. Hattie always brought her “first” basket to the classes, sharing with her students the humble beginnings of creativity and encouraging them to explore the process, infusing their own style. Hattie had a love of the outdoors that was reflected in her work. We are very fortunate to have worked with Hattie and listened to her stories. Her baskets remind us of her joy in creating them. Hattie passed away on December 20, 2012, but her legacy of pine needle basket weaving lives on. Many of her creations having found their way into many Sunshine Coast homes, and her students are carrying on her love for this art form.
