Come create
with us!
Join us August 8 + 9th for our 2nd annual 2-day workshop series at the farm! 10am-5pm each day. A farm fresh lunch, snacks and refreshments will be provided!
Come Weave with us
Come
Dye
with
us
Come Forge with us
Basket Making
In this two-day course, learn the way of willow! Using a combination of wild and cultivated basketry willow, we will weave a basket of your choice, learning various weaves and techniques along the way. Specific techniques covered are weaving a round or oval base using pairing, a 3-rod wale, french randing, and creating a decorative rod border. Handles and feet can be added if time allows. While weaving, we will discuss harvesting and cultivation methods, materials preparation, and ongoing care for your basket.
All materials are provided.
Beginners are welcome.
Class size is limited to 10 participants.
Minimum age: 12 years.
Bladesmithing
Join incredible blacksmith Sam Farnworth for an unforgettable 2-day bladesmithing class. You will learn the basics of knife making, hand forge a blade, fashion a handle, and make a sheath all using basic tools. All participants will leave with a finished knife and sheath and an understanding of how to continue your blade making passions.
All materials are provided.
Beginners are welcome.
Class size is limited to 10 participants.
Minimum age: 12 years.
Natural Dyeing
Join us for a vibrant two-day immersion into the art of natural dyeing. In this hands-on workshop, you'll explore the rich colors that can be created from plants, using many grown here at HOBO RANCH alongside a few special favorites from beyond the ranch.
Together, we'll build a shared indigo vat and experiment with traditional shibori techniques, including tying, folding, and binding to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind patterns on fabric and fiber. Along the way, we'll explore the science and magic of indigo, from its rich history to the fascinating alchemy of oxidation.
We'll also create marigold and madder dye baths, experimenting with color layering and discovering how mordants and natural dye modifiers, such as rust and henna, can transform the final palette.
For those who want to explore even further, optional activities like stitch-resist and wax-resist dyeing will offer additional opportunities for creativity and inspiration.
Expect two full days of hands on learning, experimentation, creativity, and fun as you discover the beauty and versatility of natural dyes.
All materials are provided. Beginners are welcome.
Class size is limited to 10 participants.
Minimum age: 12 years.
Meet Your Instructors
Nick LaHaise
Nick LaHaise is a basket weaver, green wood worker, carpenter, chef, and teacher. He has studied various traditional arts, wilderness skills, deep nature connection mentoring, and rites of passage over the last decade. Nick currently organizes Buckeye Gathering, a weeklong ancestral skills gathering, and guides Wilderness Fasts through the School of Lost Borders. He has been weaving baskets and teaching willow basketry for over 13 years, and is growing a small plot of basketry willow in Sierra Valley, where he lives with his family.
Sam Farnsworth
Sam Farnworth (he/him) has been a blacksmith and knife maker for 12 years and an instructor for 8. As a completely self-taught artisan, Sam mastered the craft through years of trial, error, and dedication, ultimately developing a unique and highly practical approach to crafting blades.
Passionate about making metalworking accessible to everyone, Sam specializes in teaching techniques that rely on traditional hand tools rather than expensive, specialized shop machinery. His goal as an educator is to empower students with a solid, foundational skill set, proving that anyone can craft a beautiful, high-quality knife at home with the right knowledge and a bit of hard work.
Heather River
Part time farmer
Full time dreamer
Bio to come!
Meet your hosts!
We’re Heather and Brian, the adult humans behind Hobo Ranch. Alongside our two boys, we have the joy of stewarding this special little piece of land, and every day we're amazed by what it teaches us.
Nestled on our cozy seven-acre farm, Hobo Ranch is a place where community, creativity, and nature come together. We're delighted to open our gates for workshops, live music, and private gatherings, creating opportunities for people to connect with each other and the land.
Our love for the natural world is woven into our everyday life. We organically grow flowers, vegetables, fruit, and dye plants, and share our home with sheep, chickens, and one very special donkey named Leroy.
We can't wait to welcome you to Hobo Ranch and share a little of the magic that makes this place so special.
FAQ
I’m from out of the area… where should I stay?
There are a few accommodations in Sierraville, including Constellation Creek, the Valley House, Sierra Hot Springs, and The Gilded Drifter Inn. Book now if you want to stay at any of those locations. They fill up quickly. Otherwise, Truckee is only 30 minutes from Hobo Ranch.
Do I need to pack my own food?
All snacks and lunch are provided each day. Let us know if you have any dietary restrictions. Hobo Ranch is gluten free, except for our neighbor Carolyn who likes to surprise the participants with amazing chocolate chip cookies!
Can I camp on site?
Yes! We have a limited amount of camping onsite. However, we have 2 livestock guardian dogs (LGD), whose job it is to protect the animals. They tend to be awake most of the night keeping the animals safe. If you are sensitive to dogs barking, we encourage you to stay offsite.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Please leave all your pets at home. While our LGDs are very nice, we cannot guarantee the safety of your pets on our property. Thank you.
Are there bathrooms?
Yes. We will have a port-o-potty style toilet onsite and running water. (No showers)