Gourd & Pine Needle Weaving Workshop

Saturday, April 11, 2026
10am-4pm
San Francisco Botanical Garden — Redwood Grove (meet at Main Gate)

About the Program

Abi will begin the program by introducing you to gourds: what they are, how they grow, and how they are traditionally used for vessels, tools, and art. You will learn how to properly scrub and clean your gourd, beginning the process of transforming it from a raw material to polished piece. You will then learn the basics of pine needle weaving, using the craft to embellish and transform your gourd.

Along the way, Abi will share cultural context, highlighting Indigenous, African, and global traditions that use gourds and coiled basketry for everyday life and ceremonial purposes.

All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary. This workshop is beginner-friendly and paced with care. Participants will leave with a finished — or nearly finished — woven gourd, along with the skills and confidence to continue exploring this craft at home.

About the Instructor

I’m Abeni ‘Abi’ Pierson, a Chicagoland native who escaped the cold winters and has been living in the Bay Area for the past seven years. During the 2020 lockdown, I turned to the therapeutic practice of weaving and quickly became passionate about keeping this ancient craft alive. Through my workshops and handcrafted pieces, I strive to spark conversations and preserve the language of weaving for future generations.

Pine trees grow in nearly every part of the world, making this craft accessible to all. My mission is to reconnect people with nature through sustainable, hands-on creativity — honoring both the materials and the ecosystems they come from.

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Gardens of Golden Gate Park Members may attend this event at a 20% discount. Contact membership@gggp.org to receive the Member Discount Code, then enter the Member Discount Code in the “Promo Code” field when checking out. Discount codes do not apply to the “Pay What You Will” price level.  

Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.