After about four hours on the road from Los Angeles, I arrived just in time for the tail end of breakfast. Morning circle followed, where there was singing and then introductions from instructors and what they were teaching that day. Some of the classes included willow weaving, spoon carving, gourd bowl making, leather crafting, beading, indigo dyeing, Oaxacan weaving, felted wool hat making, corn nixtamalization, seed saving/swapping, among many others.
In the three days, I learned to sew leather for the first time. I made a pouch with a loop in the back so that it can be worn on a belt. It’s great for foraging but can also carry various items like keys or snacks. I’ve been sewing for many years so it was exciting to learn something new in that realm.
I also wove with willow for the first time. I learned about the intensive process of preparing the willow in order for it to be ready to weave. It included gathering the willow, soaking them in water for several days depending on the length of the willow, and then drying them but not too much or the willow will snap when weaving. I then learned how to weave a tray including the technique of starting it off and then weaving outwards. I am glad to have learned this craft, but I realized it is not my preferred one as I like to work with softer materials. That’s not to say I wouldn’t make one again!
Camping and Crafts
A Renewal for the Soul
In mid-October, I attended Catscat Gathering, an extended weekend of crafting and connecting in California’s Central Coast.
Upon signing up, I didn’t know what to expect as I’ve never been to any event like this. I was nervous since I was traveling there and camping on my own for the first time. I mustered up the courage and ended up having a wonderful time and meeting some beautiful souls.
Before I get into it, I want to acknowledge that the gathering was held on Salinan land which was recently reclaimed by a family of Salinan descent. It was a blessing to be invited on this land and connect with it.
The event started with many people arriving on Thursday to settle in and set up camp. I wasn’t able to make it on Thursday since it happened to be a Community Craft night and I was cohosting a clothing swap and glassblowing workshop alongside it. It was an important evening for me to be present so I made the drive over the following morning.
Outside of crafting in classes, there was an organic, locally sourced, open-fire dinner. The meals had pickled vegetables and bright herbs to highlight the freshness and balance everything out. I tried sorghum in its whole form for the first time. The texture was quite firm and almost chalky in the middle. It didn’t have much flavor on it’s own so in a grain bowl with roasted vegetables and sauce, it worked well. It’s not my preferred grain due to the texture but I would be happy to try it again.
After dinner on Saturday evening, there was live music and dancing. I had so much fun with my friend who was my dance partner. We learned a few dance moves and were out there until the music ended.
On Sunday, there was a barter faire where people brought things they made to trade or sell. Items ranged from naturally dyed pieces, to skincare/wellness products, to art prints and more. It was inspiring to see the beautiful items everyone had made. To close out the weekend, we gathered in a circle and sang together.
“I’m so happy
To have you in my life
I want to be with you,
Be with you
All the time
On the rolling meadows,
On the mountain tops.”
- Sarina
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