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 took one class and made a door basket - am now trying to make another. I can't remember what we soaked when and for how long? Are there any guide lines for this? Also I am interested in gathering and making baskets from native materials. Can you recommend a good book for this? I live in Northern Vermont and ash on my property among other trees etc on our 15 acres
Thanks!
Answer Hi Billie,
Reed only needs to be soaked long enough to make it pliable...and if it's dyed, I just swish it in the water...or spray it, and then let it mellow on a towel. Be sure to towel dry any standing water on it before weaving it next to natruals to keep the color from bleeding.
There are several books available with information and ideas for weaving with vines and other naturals materials:
Handmade Baskets from nature's colorful materials By Susie Vaughan
Baskets from Natures Bounty by Elizabeth Jensen
Fibre Basketry edited by Helen Richardson
Baskets and Basketry by Dorothy Wright
