our services
Basket Weaving Class
Weaving Classes at Talking Through Art
At Talking Through Art, we host daily weaving classes where visitors can sit side by side with our talented weavers Emilienne or Jeanne. You don’t need to book in advance — just stop by, request a class, and join in.
During the session, you will learn how to make a basket from the very beginning. You can choose your own colors and create a design that reflects your personal taste. While a medium-sized basket takes about two days to complete, don’t worry — in just one session you’ll be able to make something beautiful to take home, such as a pendant, a Christmas tree ornament, or a small espresso coaster.
The experience is not only creative but also cultural. As you weave, you’ll share stories, laughs, and even learn some basic Kinyarwanda with our members. And with Jeanne and Emilienne speaking English, communication flows easily. Visitors are also welcome to ask the ladies for a cup of tea or coffee — they will be happy to prepare one for you, making the experience even more relaxed and friendly.
The class costs RWF 15,000 (about $10), and you are welcome to stay as long as you wish.
How the Sisal Fibre is Prepared
The baskets you see in Rwanda are made from sisal fibre, which comes from the plant Agave sisalana. Preparing this fibre is hard work:
Extraction – Women carefully pull the fibres from the plant. This is physically demanding, and the plant releases a secretion that can cause itching on the skin.
Dyeing & Drying – Once extracted, the fibres are dyed in vibrant colors, then dried under the sun to make them strong and ready for weaving.
Preparing the Needles – The dried fibres are grouped into bundles of 3–4 and threaded into 10–15 needles of different colors, depending on the basket’s design.
Weaving – The weaver begins with a knot at the center, weaving in a spiral that slowly grows into the shape of the basket.
Every design is created directly during the weaving process — there are no pre-drawn patterns. The women rely on their imagination, precision, and experience to ensure that the finished product matches the envisioned design.
Cultural Walking Tour
Authentic Experiences in Kigali
✨ Join us for unforgettable cultural tours, cooking classes, and weaving workshops — all guided by our friendly team at Talking Through Art.
🌍 Our Tours & Experiences (tours starts at 9am)
Cultural Walking Tour – Explore hidden Gikondo, taste local snacks, enjoy stunning views, and learn Rwanda’s stories with your guide Omar
Half-day: Rwf 20,000
With lunch: Rwf 25,000
Full day (tour + lunch + weaving class): Rwf 30,000
Mizuzu (Sweet Plantain) Cooking Tour – Shop at the local market, cook with Emmilienne, and share a Rwandan lunch.
Rwf 30,000 per person
Chilli Pepper Cooking Tour – Shop at a local market, make your own chilli chutney to take home & share a delicious Rwandan lunch.
Rwf 30,000 per person
Weaving Class – Learn basket weaving from our women and create your own souvenir.
Rwf 15,000 per person
🧺 Plus:
Visit our gallery and shop unique woven masterpieces, meet the women weaving, and enjoy a warm cultural exchange.
📍 Start point: Talking Through Art, KK 722 St, Door 16
📞 Book via WhatsApp/Call: +250 782 425 177
📧 Email: info@talkingthroughart.org
Guides: Omar, Emmilienne & Jeanne
Come curious, leave inspired. 💛
FOR ENQUIRIES CALL OF WHATSAPP:
+250 782 425 177