About Carol Antrim Expertise I can answer most questions about basketry techniques, and how to or where to find instructions/instructors. Also most questions about the materials used in basketry, either preparation and/or sources. I cannot answer questions regarding value or appraisal of baskets. Nor can I address questions about locating cheap wholesale baskets for gift basket businesses, or how to fill such baskets or conduct such businesses.
Experience I have been weaving baskets since 1986. Studied with Native American basket makers from several Woodland tribes as well as with teachers from coast to coast and Canada,Japan and Russia. Have taught basketry in Indiana, Ohio, New York, Montana, Michigan and Tennessee. Had acceptances in shows and won awards in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan, including purchase awards to the permanent collection at Minnetrista Cultural Center. Twice had baskets at the Indiana Governor's residence in the Indiana Arts and Artist Program, and was in 'Innovation--Baskets and Beyond' an invitational at The Firehouse Gallery in Damariscotta, Maine in 1999. My work can be viewed at http://cantrimbaskets.com/
Organizations Member of the Virtual Basketmakers Guild http://home.sprynet.com/~cpantrim/
and the Indiana Basketmakers Association http://www.indianabasketmakers.com/
Question I have lots of old reed, 7 or 8 years old. Even when I soak it it is very brittle. Any ideas? It was expensive at the time and I want to use it. Where can I get free, simple basket patterns for a beginner? Thanks
Answer Hi Shirley,
I've never had reed around long enough to go brittle so can't comment from experience, but I have heard some people have luck restoring it by adding glycerine to their soaking water.
Quite a few of the basketry supply sites have free patterns, Susi Nuss has links to lists of them at www.basketmakers.org/topics/patterns/fpmenu.htm
