May 18, 2025

An immersion into the ancient art of basketry as practiced in the heart of Castile. Guided by a master artisan, you will explore traditional techniques, work with natural materials, and create your own handcrafted piece — all within the serene setting of ÁBBATTE, in the Monastery of Santa María de la Sierra.

PROGRAMME

10:00 – Welcome and introduction to the centre. Morning coffee or tea with traditional convent sweets.
10:30 – Introductory session: the historical use of basketry materials in Castile. Presentation of objects, techniques, and the most common materials.
11:15 – First workshop session: crafting a basket with straw and willow.
12:15 – Coffee break and walk through ÁBBATTE’s botanical garden of dye plants and the monastery grounds.
12:45 – Second workshop session: completing the basket structure.
14:00 – Lunch.
15:00 – Guided visit to the dyeing workshop and textile workshop.
16:00 – Finishing and detailing the piece.
18:00 – End of workshop.

LUNCH MENU

Starters: Selection of cheeses, pickles, and crudités.

First course: Gazpacho or chilled carrot cream soup.
Second course: Organic chicken curry with rice and dried fruits.
Dessert: Assorted fruits, fresh cheese with quince paste, and sweets.
Coffee or tea with artisan chocolates.
Beverages: Wine and beer.
Assorted breads.

MASTER CRAFTSMAN

Carlos Fontales – Master basket weaver, researcher, and author of several books on the subject. He has taught courses and lectured in various countries around the world, and has participated in numerous national and international exhibitions.

REGISTRATION

Price includes the workshop, breakfast, and lunch: €135.
Maximum of 12 participants. Bookings will be confirmed in order of registration.
Certificate of attendance provided.

For more information:
Email: info@abbatte.com
Telephone: +34 916 22 55 30

Photography copyright © Przemek Markowski.
Monastery photography © Pablo Gómez Ogando.

Herringbone bedspread

Set of 6 linen napkins

Discovering Castilian Basketry

Cashmere and velvet cowl

Cashmere and velvet cowl

Herringbone silk stole

Herringbone merino wool and silk stole

Raw silk stole

Iniciación en el arte de tejer

La magia del Índigo, historia y práctica

SEDA Lamp

Manta bebé de Alpaca Baby con Seda blanca