Weave Culture and Sally Bags at Warm Springs
Spend a full day immersed in tradition, craft, and community as you learn the art of Sally bag weaving. This hands-on, full-day workshop pairs skill-building with cultural experience you won’t forget. We will meet at The Museum at Warm Springs for a private tour followed by a stop at a local store to see and buy traditional crafts. We will then share a potluck meal and spend the afternoon with a rare opportunity to learn the Wasco flat-bottom weaving technique—from a true tradition bearers.
When: November 14th, 10:00am – 4:00pm
Where: 2197 NW Warm Springs Hwy, Madras
Ticket Options: $225, $250, and $275
Supplies Fee: $10
Number of Tickets: 16
Sold Out? Can’t Make the Date? Pre-Register!
Pre-registration is free; we only charge your credit card when we’re ready to schedule (and you say ok). When 8 people pre-register, we’ll set up the next workshop!
The Details
Learn the Flat-Bottom Start
Forget the “T” or cross—Wasco weaving starts with a clever, clean flat-bottom technique that sets Sally Bags apart. You’ll learn how to weave your bag the traditional way. You’ll leave with the basic skills and the confidence to keep going at home.
Tour – The Museum at Warm Springs
At the Museum at Warm Springs we will see examples of Wasco baskets woven by master weavers. Then you will get step-by-step guidancea hands-on experience applying basic twining methods to create your own design. You’ll leave with the basic skills and the confidence to keep going at home.
Community Potluck! Feed Your Friends!
Nothing says community like a potluck. Breaking bread while building bridges, so to speak. This workshop will include a potluck, a chance to talk about what you are learning, share experiences, and get to know one another. We’ll supply the main protein. Please bring something along to share with your neighbors!
Workshop Leader
Valerie Switzler
Valerie Switzler has over 30 years of experience in Wasco weaving, a tradition she learned from her aunt, Eraina Palmer, recognized nationally for first teaching this technique to people outside the tribal community. Valerie began weaving as a young adult and continues to share this sacred art to keep it alive. As General Manager for Education for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Valerie leads efforts to revitalize the Kiksht language. A beloved teacher and master weaver, Valerie brings deep knowledge, cultural integrity, and a warm heart to everything she does.
Workshop Leader
Deanie Johnson
Itukdi wigwa, Naika ichxliu Tasuna, bashtenemt ichxliu Radine Johnson ( Good day my Indian name is Tasuna, my English name is Radine “Deanie” Johnson.) I am a Tribal member of the Confederated Tribes of The Warm Springs Indian Reservation where I have lived most of my life. I currently work as a Language Coordinator at the Culture and Heritage Language Program. I grew up living our culture and ways of life, when I began working for the language program is where I learned more arts such as weaving what we call “Aqwalq” (Wasq’u Sally Bag) from Valerie Switzler. I am a speaker of the Kiksht Language of the Wasq’u people and continue to pass it on to the future generations.
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frequently asked questions
What should I wear?
We’ll be in a classroom setting, so dress comfortably..
What should I bring?
We provide all weaving materials. Bringdish to share for the potluck, and any drinks or snacks you like.
Can kids attend?
Kids 12 and up are welcome with an adult. Everyone who attends needs a ticket.
Will there be food?
Yes! We’ll take a break for a potluck—please bring something to share.
What is School of Ranch?
School of Ranch is a Central Oregon based 501c3 nonprofit. We hire experienced locals to teach practical and artisan skills, live and in person. Beyond teaching skills and helping grow our workshop leader’s businesses, we create common ground for neighbors. School of Ranch brings together people regardless of politics, age, background or beliefs.