Pickings from Sanborn Mills Farm

Farm Pickings

News and Updates from Sanborn Mills Farm

— January 10, 2024 —

Snow was falling,

so much like stars

filling the dark trees

that one could easily imagine

its reason for being was nothing more

than prettiness.

~ Mary Oliver

Upcoming Workshops of Interest

The 2024 workshop season at Sanborn Mills Farm opens in April, and that month we have three workshops (among others) of special interest. Click on the hot-linked title of each workshop for more information and to register.

Round Cherokee Style Storage Basket

April 13-14

Instructor: Ruth Boland

The pattern for this basket is created by specific placement of the dyed vs. natural weavers and stakes. In the workshop, participants will weave the base by twining to create a solid bottom. The sides are woven using start/stop rows. The finished basket will be approximately 10 inches high and 15 inches across. Some color choices will be available. This class is appropriate for all levels of weavers, beginner as well as those with experience. 

Rug Hooking

April 20-21

Instructor: Pam Bartlett

Rug hooking is a traditional New England fiber art that beautifully combines artist expression and function. Workshop participants will have the opportunity to learn core skills of rug hooking to create a 16 x 16 inch hooked design that can be turned into a pillow, chair pad or wall hanging. For those with a bit more skill, they can discuss with Pam a possible project of their own that fits into the timeline of the class. Participants will will have the opportunity to create their own design, using a choice of various templates available, or their own inspiration. The workshop fee includes a kit with a pattern, materials, and a rug hook.

Forged Kitchen Knife

April 26-28

Instructor: Emiliano Carrillo

In this three-day workshop participants will forge 6-8 inch hidden tang high carbon cooking knives. Basics of forging, grinding, heat treatment, handle fitting, and polishing will be covered, plus effective kitchen knife design. The knives will feature polished blades and multi piece handles with a metal or organic bolster and a wooden grip. Prior experience forging and knife making is helpful: this is an intermediate beginner class.

To see the full schedule of our 2024 workshops, click here.

Available Position: Assistant Vegetable Gardener

Would you like to become a member of Sanborn Mills Farm’s Garden crew? We are looking for an Assistant Vegetable Gardener to start in March of 2024. This seasonal, full-time position will aid in all aspects of vegetable farming here at the Farm, growing high quality produce for our kitchen and CSA program. Two years of experience preferred but not required. More information is available on our website — click here.

Photo Credits

Top and bottom photos by Steve Bjerklie.

Workshop photos courtesy of the instructors.