For centuries brooms have been crafted by hand around the world using a variety of fibers, grasses, and animal hair. In 1797 the first broom was made from sorghum, which is now called “broom corn”. During our summer handwork teacher conference, we will be delving deeper into this ancient craft to create a traditional hand broom with teacher Julie Yarnall.
Julie is a trained Waldorf teacher and holds a master’s degree in Waldorf education. She has been an early childhood teacher, a handwork teacher and a class teacher. She currently runs Heart and Hands Preschool and teaches broom making classes in Petaluma, California. www.heartandhandspetaluma.com
Julie has put together a custom-made broom kit especially for the Wonder & Wisdom of Handwork Teacher Conference participants. This kit includes traditional full-length broom corn with knuckles and stalks and all the supplies you will need plus a special hand crafted wooden kick winder. You will need to have your own sharp knife (kitchen knife or utility knife). This kit is being offered at a special low price for our conference. The cost is $40 and includes domestic shipping. For international shipping please contact Julie directly.
Our sincere apologies for this correction but we included the wrong email address for Julie in our original supply list. Julie’s correct email is julieheartandhands@gmail.com
To purchase the kit email Julie Yarnall with your address at julieheartandhands@gmail.com as soon as possible to ensure adequate time for shipping. She accepts Paypal or Venmo.
If you do not wish to buy the kit you can collect the following supplies locally:
1 pound (453.5 grams) straw, broom corn, or other grass / fiber
(straw will be more challenging because it is short but it will work)
12 feet (3.6 meters) of strong twine or hemp
A 2 foot (60.9cm) branch or stick to serve as the kick winder
Reeds or dried corn husks to weave the handle
A sharp knife (kitchen knife or utility knife)
Just ordered my kit, can't wait. such a great balance with doll making!