Introduction to Pandanus Stripping and Weaving

Every wondered how beautiful Top End Aboriginal natural fibre weavings are created? This is the opportunity to find out and try it yourself.

Our expert teachers are looking forward to sharing the skills that have been handed down to them by their ancestors, skills in use over thousands of years.

Over the course of four hours (including lunch) we'll share with you techniques for preparing and weaving Pandanus fibre. Everything is hands-on. Be ready for a day of laughter and learning. Plus, you get to take your piece of crafty art home.

Lunch and refreshments provided. We will have vegan/vegetarian options available. Songlines is open from 10 am (workshop starts 10.30 am sharp) and you are welcome to come in before the workshop for a tea/coffee and chat. 

We start by learning the technique for stripping fresh (prickly) Pandanus fronds - not as easy as it looks, but a fantastic challenge and certainly builds appreciation for the work and skill involved in a finished basket or mat!

In case you can't master that in a hurry, we will also have pre-prepared fibre on hand so you can then start a weaving. We will also explain how the amazing colour palettes are created from locally sourced natural dyes.

There's a break around 12.30 for lunch and then you can continue finessing your weaving skills. 

This experience gives you the opportunity to connect with the teachers (local Aboriginal women) and other course participants.

The workshop session will be facilitated by Felicity Wright. She has a long history of managing and working in remote community art centres and facilitating a range of art and cultural experiences for visitors.

The teachers are drawn from her extensive network of weavers from remote communities, some of who now regularly visit or live in Darwin.

NB: Please advise if you have particular dietary requirements.