Creative Workshops in Melbourne: Try Raffia Basket Weaving
Craft, conversation and a cup of tea — not a bad way to spend a few hours.
Hidden away in Box Hill North, The Raffia Connection offers small-group weaving workshops that feel warm, social and wonderfully unhurried. Marjie recently went along to try raffia basket coiling for the first time and came home already planning her next project.
Here’s what you can expect if you’re thinking of booking.
Basket Weaving in Melbourne
A creative escape (without the pressure)
The weaving workshops centre around raffia basket coiling—an age-old craft that’s surprisingly calming once you get going. You’ll learn how to stitch, shape and build your own small basket or coaster using beautifully hand-dyed raffia.
What stood out to Marjie—and what many participants comment on—is how relaxed it all feels. There’s no rush, no expectation to be “good at craft”. Just a gentle rhythm of learning, chatting and creating.
And yes, beginners are absolutely welcome. In fact, many people start with simple stitches like blanket or random stitch before progressing to more intricate techniques.
Marjie’s review
The Raffia Connection. A workshop!
I spent an evening with a group of eleven other ladies (some Senior, some not) who wanted to learn a little about basketry using raffia.
The learning was so hands-on!
Within minutes of a warm welcome and a punctual start, all twelve of us were immersed in using blanket stitch on the ridge line of a raffia coil, interspersing either a natural or coloured core with our stitching strands of contrasting raffia, hemp, jute twine or waxed linen thread!
To think that only last night, before this two-hour workshop with The Rafia Connection, most of these concepts were new to me in this context!
And with a carefully considered teaching method, we leapt, within a further few minutes, to selecting our own colour palette and beginning the process from scratch. Learning the crafts of buttoning, twining, splicing, threading, looping, tensioning, feeding and tapering.
If you’re already a crafty person and blanket stitch sounds a bit basic for you, worry not! There are other basic workshops for random, wrapping and wave basket stitches and more advanced workshops for spiral, Navajo, Mariposa and wheat ear stitches. Or if you’re already experienced, you can buy your supplies here!
I don’t think I’m a particularly crafty person, but I was so engaged that I’m re-thinking my views on that. I also liked the atmosphere! We sat at tables in the studio surrounded by beautiful hues of colour from the hanging sheaths of raffia (a plant from Madagascar) hand-dyed by The Raffia Connection.
I also loved the aroma of the raffia, which gave me a sense of being “away in a manger”, surrounded by straw bales. And this “slow craft” relaxed me.
More articles and travel stories by Marjie Courtis can be found at www.ozimage.com.au
What happens on the night?
Workshops typically run for around two hours in the evening (7 pm – 9 pm).
You’ll be guided by founder Janet Troy, an experienced teacher who has spent years sharing this craft across Melbourne.
Here’s how it usually unfolds:
- A warm welcome and introduction to the craft
- Step-by-step guidance through your chosen stitch
- Plenty of one-on-one help as you go
- Time to chat, connect and admire each other’s creations
By the end, you’ll have started your own piece—and more importantly, you’ll know how to continue it at home.
Everything is taken care of
One of the biggest barriers to trying something new is not knowing what to bring. Here, you don’t need to think about a thing.
All materials are included, from the raffia and needle through to your starter coil.
Some sessions even include follow-up resources or guidance so you can continue creating at home.
If you fall in love with it (which many do), you can purchase extra raffia on the night.
Small groups, friendly atmosphere
Workshops are intentionally kept small—usually around 6 to 12 people—so you’re never lost in the crowd.
That makes a real difference. It’s easy to ask questions, get help when you need it, and have a proper chat with the people around you.
A lovely option for groups too
If you’re thinking beyond a solo outing, there’s also the option to book a private session.
The “Weave & Unwind” experience is designed for small groups—perfect for a birthday, catch-up with friends, or even a low-key celebration. You can bring your own nibbles and drinks, which adds to that relaxed, home-like feel.
Why it works so well
No screens, no rush—just hands, materials, and a bit of patience.
For many of us, that’s exactly the appeal. It’s:
- Easy to access (a short trip from the CBD)
- Affordable (around $60–$70 per session)
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Social, but not overwhelming
- Creative without being complicated
And perhaps most importantly, it’s enjoyable.
Raffia Workshops to try in Box Hill North
All sessions are held in Box Hill North in small groups, typically in the evenings, with materials included and plenty of guidance along the way.
1. Raffia Basket Weaving Workshop for Beginners
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn shaping, coiling, and finishing techniques through step-by-step guidance. Ideal for beginners. Tickets $75
2. Raffia Wave Basket Workshop
A lovely introduction to sculptural basket-making, this workshop teaches you how to create a flowing “wave” design using raffia coiling techniques. Ideal if you’d like to make something both practical and decorative. Tickets $70
3. Raffia Basket Coiling Workshop: Navajo Stitch
Learn the striking Navajo stitch technique, known for its textured and patterned appearance. This class is a good option for anyone wanting to experiment with more detailed weaving styles. Tickets $70
4. Raffia Basket Coiling Workshop: Wheat Ear Stitch
This workshop focuses on the elegant Wheat Ear stitch, creating a beautifully layered effect that adds texture and character to your basket. Tickets $70
5. Raffia Basket Coiling Workshop: Blanket Stitch
One of the most beginner-friendly options, the Blanket Stitch workshop is perfect if you’re new to raffia weaving. You’ll learn a versatile foundation stitch that can be used in future projects at home. Tickets $70
6. Raffia Basket Coiling Workshop: Random Stitch
A more relaxed and creative style, the Random Stitch workshop allows for organic patterns and plenty of room for personal flair. Great for those who enjoy freeform creativity. Tickets $70
7. Raffia Basket Coiling Workshop: Mariposa Stitch
This workshop introduces the decorative Mariposa stitch, producing intricate butterfly-like patterns throughout the coiled basket design. Tickets $70
8. Weave and Unwind Workshop
Part workshop, part social catch-up, this relaxed session encourages participants to slow down, weave, chat and enjoy the creative process together. A lovely option for friends or small groups. Tickets $80
9. Raffia Basket Coiling Workshop: Wrapping Stitch
Learn the classic wrapping stitch technique, a core raffia coiling method that creates clean lines and a polished finish. Tickets $70
10. Raffia Basket Coiling Workshop: Spiral Stitch
Create eye-catching spiral designs while learning another popular basket coiling technique. This workshop is especially satisfying as the pattern gradually emerges while you weave. Tickets $70
Browse The Raffia Connection Online Store
The Raffia Connection also has a beautifully curated online store specialising in natural, plant-based fibres and basketry supplies. It’s a fantastic resource for crafters, makers and anyone interested in hands-on creative hobbies.
The online shop stocks a wide range of materials and tools for weaving, basket coiling, crochet, macramé and other fibre crafts, including:
- Raffia
- Weaving kits
- Hemp
- Waxed linen thread
- Jute
- Tools and accessories
- Gift cards
Worldwide delivery is available, making it easy to continue your new hobby long after the workshop ends.
Visit the online store here.
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The Seniors in Melbourne team was hosted by The Raffia Connection. All opinions are the writer’s own.
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