Expert: Renee Aun - 3/6/2009

Question
I'm new to basketmaking, and have just begun pine needle basketmaking!!  I would love some info. on when/how/where/etc. to harvest needles.  I live in Virginia.  I am impatient, and anxious to get started, so, please hurry!!  :-)

Answer
Hi Lora,

Since pine needles come from an evergreen, harvesting can be done year round! I like to harvest from the ground. I give the needles a bath with a small amount of dish detergent that has anti-bacterial and then rinse them 2-3 times before laying them out on newspaper to dry.

When I am ready to make a basket I place the needles in clean water to soak about 10 minutes before using. If, when I'm ready to quit I still have some soaking, I place them in a bag and refrigerate them until the next day when I begin again.

Some people will pick green needles and use them. They don't need to be washed, but some may turn brown because you can't be sure of the maturity of needles on the tree.

Have fun!
Warm Regards,
Renee
http://ww.chumleyandstellas.com