Jim Long

Jim Long started making baskets when he was around ten along side his mother, Lucy Long. He didn’t really plan on becoming a basketmaker, it was a family tradition he was just trying to keep going.  Jim mostly works with River Cane and White Oak starting from gathering, stripping and weaving.  

Jim is a three-time Best of Show award winner and has taught basketmaking in schools throughout western North Carolina.  

Cherokee knife maker Blue Welch

“Growing up I didn’t understand why the buyer of my mother’s baskets haggled over the price after she had spent so much time making them.  I watched her give in to provide for her family.  I was determined to perfect my work, get the price they were worth, and to show what mother taught me.”