This is an introduction in basket weaving. There are several things that you need to learn in order to make your baskets. First, there are several different sizes of reed that you will be working with. Another is that they must be cut in different lengths according to directions.
Another must, is that the reed must be kept moist in order to work with it. If it is not kept moist, it could break. Keeping it moist is not hard to do. Before you use the reed, soak in water for a few minutes. DO NOT oversoak or it will become too wet. This will cause the reed to separate.
You will also need to dye some different colors of reed. I use the old fashioned Rit Dye, which can be purchased at any grocery or department store. I use 1 box of dye and about 1/2 gallon of water. Using an old dish pan or other large NON FOOD container, I heat the water and the dye. Once it is mixed well I put it in a used milk jug. When you need the dye for the reed, just put it in the pan, heat it, and then we will dye the reed.
To dye the reed, I choose the different sizes of reed that I want to dye. I then heat the dye and then put on rubber gloves. Remember, that you need those gloves or your hands will be the color of the dye. Now, place the heated dye in the pan at the kitchen sink. Being very careful, place the reed into the dye. Leave in the dye until the color that you want is reached. When you get the color that you want, put the dyed reed into cold water containing about a 1/2 cup of vinegar. This will set the color into the reed. Again, remember to use rubber gloves. It can be very messy doing this part of handling your reed.
IMPORTANT: Remember that you will be working with hot dye, and children should not be anywhere around your working area. They can get burnt and the dye is poisonous for them. So, be sure to remember that.
As we get into the different baskets, I will tell you, step by step, the different things that you must do. Don't be frightened. It isn't as hard as you may think. Once you get the technique of weaving and the feel of the reed, it will become easier for you.
As for a place to purchase your reed, I will tell you of the company that I order from. The reed is of good quality, and is reasonably priced.
These beautiful baskets will be a great addition for decorating your home. They also make wonderful gifts that your friends will treasure. I am sure that you will enjoy this new site for Basket Weaving
So, now that we have the basics out of the way, let's get started
I have many patterns for baskets. Some are very simple, like the baskets that I will have you starting on. Some are very elaborate. These are for the more advanced classes. Baskets are very popular in todays homes.
With your new adventure in learning the art of weaving baskets, it would be a good investment to purchase a handbook on "The Basics of Weaving". They are very inexpensive and should help you understanding some of the techniques that I will be writing about.
APPLE BASKET.....Your first basket
WEAVING YOUR MARKET BASKET...
YOUR LITTLE MELON BASKET...
PREVIEW: ADVANCED BASKET WEAVING...
More baskets to come during this winter season!!!!!