Expert: Renee Aun - 9/18/2008

Question
Hi, I found some really good vines that I want to use for a basket.  I feel like the vines might need to be softened a bit before weaving.  Is there a good method for this?  Boiling?  steaming?

Also, I would like to split the vines to have a flat side.  Is there a good method for this as well?  Thanks a bunch!

Colin

Answer
Hi Colin,

Sorry for the delay. My daughter got her Navy orders and I've been busy packing and moving her belongings these past few days.

Any way, wild vines are usually boiled. Vines like blackberry brambles are stripped of the leaves and thorns boiling, bark is left on.
The vines are placed in a pot of boiling water, enough to cover, and simmered for 4 hours. Let the vines cool in that water overnight. Take them out of the water, rinse well and strip bark if you wish. It may also be left on. Coil the vines and hang them to dry.
When you are ready to use them soak for about 15 minutes.

As far as splitting, I'm not really sure. I've never done it, but my suggestion is to take a chisel of sorts and cut the end and see if you can follow the grain of the wood just pulling it apart with your hands.

Good Luck.
Kind Regards,
Renee Aun
http://www.chumleyandstellas.com
Hang them to dry