Leather Plaited Appalachian Hand Broom
Continue to explore the traditional and contemporary Appalachian craft of broom making. Using a foot treadle, nylon twine, leather, and processed broomcorn, create a whisk with a leather plaited handle. This class teaches the fundamentals of plaiting, specifically the over-under twill pattern, in a practical way and provides a hands-on understanding of the process. Plaiting with leather is easily grasped and delivers the essential skills needed to create with stalked broomcorn.
Supply List:
- Scissors
- Utility Knife
Registration Information
Class Fee:
- $75 for Non-Members (includes supplies)
- $67.50 for BRMAA Members (includes supplies)
Register:
Skill Level:
- Beginner
Maximum Students: 8
Session Length & Date:
August 20th, 2026 – 1 session (Thursday)
- 1:00 – 4:00pm
Instructor Name:
- Denise Taranto
About the Instructor
Denise Taranto
Denise Taranto is a serial crafter and has been making baskets, weaving Viking wire jewelry, sewing, and wrapping rocks since 2014. In 2022, she became a broom maker after attending classes at Olive’s Porch and John C. Campbell Folk School. Since retiring from education, broom making and crafting have become activities that feed her creativity and provide an opportunity to give back to the community. She enjoys teaching classes at Oasis, Treasured Creations, Young Harris ICL, and demonstrating broom making at the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival in Hiawassee, GA.
