After studying with Jiro Yonezawa, a Japanese bamboo basketmaker and teacher, Dorothy became proficient in making Japanese-style baskets, particularly diagonal twills. Watercolor paper quickly became her medium of choice and she has since combined her knowledge of traditional bamboo techniques with paper techniques. What most attracts her to using paper and paint for weaving is the ability to play with color and pattern. Dorothy is known for her weaving innovations and contemporary shapes; the evolution of her body of work is built on taking risks and avoiding the "known."
Dorothy has studied basketmaking for over 30 years and her work has been widely exhibited both nationally and internationally, including in Korea, Australia and Spain. She has won numerous awards, including multiple Niche Awards and Handweavers Guild of America Awards.
Dorothy lives and works in Everett, Washington.