Curd Cheese Strainer-Making Workshop with Charlie Kennard

Join us for a hands-on workshop where we’ll make traditional Southern Italian-style fiscelle—beautiful, functional cheese strainers woven from rush (Juncus effusus). These handmade baskets leave their imprint on the cheese, including the distinctive iris-diaphragm pattern on the bottom. As you weave, you’ll get a feel for the rhythm and technique behind this practical craft. We’ll also sample ricotta salata and make fresh curds to mold in your own basket. It’s a flavorful, tactile experience—and you’ll leave with a finished piece and a deeper appreciation for this time-honored tradition.

Participants must bring a water bowl, a pair of scissors and lunch !

Instructor Bio: Charlie Kennard of San Anselmo is a long-time basket weaver and student of California Indian and other Traditional Basketry techniques. He has taught for the Point Reyes Field Institute, East Bay Regional Parks Botanic Garden, the Laguna Environmental Center in Santa Rosa and in many schools and at teacher trainings. Tule boats made in his workshops can be seen at the Bay Model in Sausalito, Lake County Museum, and another is in the collection of the Oakland Museum. You can also visit a basketry plant garden Charlie has created at the Marin Art and Garden Center in Ross. Charlie is active in native habitat restoration in Marin, managing several projects for Friends of Corte Madera Creek Watershed.