Country Baskets

Description:

Try your hand at the ancient and venerable tradition of basket weaving by following tricks of the trade passed on from generation to generation. A host of ideas and information will transform even the novice into a basket-weaving expert. Learn to identify the various fibers, such as wicker, raffia, medulla, and cane, available commercially, and how to prepare honeysuckle, clematis, wisteria, holly, or other branches gathered from your own garden. Tips on dyeing, a descriptive list of tools, detailed technical instruction, and plenty of pictures will soon have you weaving dozens of objects. Not just conventional baskets, but trays, hampers, bicycle baskets, wreaths, even woven shopping carts will take form under your hands. And, the best part is, these will not be slavish imitations, but original, one-of-a-kind creations, with the variations that come from nature and from your thorough understanding of this traditional handicraft.