I took my first basket class in 1997 with Margaret Mathewson. Inspired by her, I’ve been hooked on gathering my own materials and weaving ever since. Most of my early work was guided by years of amazing classes with Margaret, but I have also been fortunate to learn from a large number of other incredible instructors through the years. One of my favorite techniques is large sculptural random weave - working most often with red osier and willows. But I also enjoy working with cedar and willow bark and a large variety of soft materials. My work moves from fine/small weaving to very large.

In 2003 I branched out to also explore papermaking and dyeing. I have a studio beater, gather and beat my own fibers and make paper. With my handmade paper, I create handbound books, spun paper/weaving, and lamps. My dye explorations are on both paper and fabric. I enjoy collaborating with other artists in a variety of mediums. I am on the board for a biennial artists’ collaborative event called Frogwood held in Colton, Oregon. Participation in this event with hundreds of artists over the last decade+ has inspired an ever-evolving interest to incorporate metals, wood, and other materials into my own work. I am always learning!

Instagram: @florafiberdye
International Association of Hand Papermakers and Paper Artists (IAPMA): Julie Johnson Member Gallery